How many points are in one pica?

Exactly 12. This is the standard definition used in PostScript and digital typography: 1 pica = 12 points.

Are typographic points the same as CSS points?

The unit is the same name, but context matters. In print, 1 point = 1/72 inch. CSS also defines 1pt = 1/72 inch, so they are equivalent numerically.

12pt = 1 pica. A 12-point font is exactly 1 pica tall from ascender to descender baseline.

72pt = 6 picas. 72pt is also exactly 1 inch in PostScript/digital typography.

Picas are commonly used for larger measurements like column widths, margins, and gutters. Points are preferred for font sizes and leading values.

Name: Points to Picas Converter
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Convert typographic points to picas instantly — 1 pica equals exactly 12 points.

Points (pt)

÷ 12 / × 12

Picas (pc)

Common sizes (points)

Formula: picas = points ÷ 12

Copied!

Convert typographic points to picas instantly — 1 pica equals exactly 12 points.

Enter a value in the Points field to see the equivalent in picas.
Or enter a value in the Picas field to convert back to points.
The formula is: picas = points / 12; points = picas × 12.
Use the preset buttons to load common typographic sizes (6pt, 12pt, 24pt, 72pt).
Copy the result with one click.

Convert font sizes from points to picas for print layout software.
Check leading and line-spacing values when switching between measurement systems.
Convert pica-based column widths to points for fine-grained type control.
Verify measurements in InDesign, QuarkXPress, or other publishing tools.
Quickly look up common type sizes in both units.

Last updated: 2026-07-23 · Reviewed by Nham Vu