> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/buying/simulating-size.md).

# Simulating tablet size

{% hint style="info" %}
For more general help on picking the right size: [Choosing the right size for a drawing tablet](/drawtab/buying/choosing-size.md)
{% endhint %}

## Steps

* Find the dimensions of the device and the active area. These dimensions are usually published online.
* Cut out a piece of cardboard to the size of the tablet.
* Draw a rectangle on it to represent the active area.
* Try drawing on it.

## Example

<figure><img src="https://1457921496-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FNde0PQIvNcFZNVxuTO0G%2Fuploads%2FhuNdXk7YVLcCiVB3zgDs%2F20250728_093712%20(Large).jpg?alt=media&amp;token=afa3f573-b094-46f3-bd00-470ba8e3c917" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Things to test

* Does the active area give you enough space to draw?
* How will you place the tablet relative to your keyboard?
* Does it fit on your desk?
* Especially for pen displays, hold it about half an arm's length away. How much does that limit your reach to other items on the desk?