Plan - GCSE Maths Definition

In GCSE Mathematics, the plan (view or elevation) of a three-dimensional shape or object, is the two-dimensional shape that would be seen from directly above it. Commonly, a plan is called a bird's eye view. When drawing the plan of a 3D shape, we are only concerned with the size and shape of the 2D view; we are not concerned with whether the shape is getting closer or further away from our view; for example, if you think of a flat but sloping roof on a shed or garage, say, then the plan view would be a square or rectangle.

Drawing or sketching the plan of an object can help us solve problems involving its surface area, its net and other two-dimensional properties it may have.