Animal Cell Diagram
Free printable animal cell diagram — a labeled animal cell showing the nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, Golgi apparatus and other organelles. Download a high-resolution PDF or PNG for Letter paper.
The parts of an animal cell
An animal cell is the basic building block of animals, including humans. Inside are tiny structures called organelles, each with its own job. Here is what happens at each labeled part of the diagram:
| Organelle | What it does |
|---|---|
| Cell membrane | The thin outer layer that holds the cell together and controls what goes in and out. |
| Cytoplasm | The jelly-like fluid that fills the cell and holds the organelles. |
| Nucleus | The control center of the cell; it holds the DNA and directs the cell's activities. |
| Nucleolus | A small, dense area inside the nucleus that makes ribosomes. |
| Mitochondria | The "powerhouses" that release energy from food for the cell to use. |
| Ribosomes | Tiny structures that build proteins for the cell. |
| Endoplasmic reticulum | A folded network of membranes that moves materials around the cell. |
| Golgi apparatus | Packages and ships proteins and other materials to where they are needed. |
| Lysosome | Holds chemicals that break down waste and worn-out parts. |
| Vacuole | A storage sac for water, food and waste. Animal cells have small vacuoles. |
Companion worksheet
A free fill-in worksheet with an answer key, built from the labels above — students match each organelle to its description, then answer a couple of short questions. Great for a quick check after using the diagram.
How to print
Choose Download PDF for a ready-to-print file that fits US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape, or Download PNG for the high-resolution image.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main parts of an animal cell?
The cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, nucleolus, mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes and vacuoles.
What is the difference between an animal cell and a plant cell?
Plant cells have a rigid cell wall, a large central vacuole and chloroplasts for photosynthesis. Animal cells have none of these — just a flexible cell membrane and small vacuoles.
What paper size should I print this on?
The diagram is sized for standard US Letter paper (8.5 × 11") in landscape orientation. Use "Download PDF" for a print-ready file that fits the page automatically.