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The aim of this study was the development of a digital method evaluation using the Digital Determination of Areas (DDA) software aiming at the area determination of different image forms and sizes, in order to propose its use on the leaf area evaluation. Fifteen geometric figures with mathematically known area were submitted to the determination area through leaf area electronic integrator LI-COR 3100 (considered a standard method of leaf area analysis) against DDA with five replications. The obtained values were compared through variance analysis and Fisher's mean comparison test. The results were evaluated through Pearson correlations and polynomial regression. No significant differences were observed between the analysis methods, presenting correlation values around 0.99, regression equations interception values close to zero, angular coefficient close to one, and the determination coefficient close to 100%. Areas determined by the digital method using the DDA software did not differ from those obtained through the electronic integrator of leaf area, both being equal to those calculated mathematically. The digital approach using the DDA software can be recommended for the determination of leaf area, being a useful tool in this evaluation and, consequently, the leaf area index, the primary variable for the understanding of plant dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]