Your draw length is how far your bow is drawn back. This will typically dictate what size bow you buy or how your compound bow is adjusted for optimal string angel and anchor positioning.  A simple way to find a rough estimate of your draw length is as follows. While within arm distance from a wall. 1. Stand your your feet shoulder width apart. 2. Stick your arms out and make a T shape with your body. 3. Make a fist with the hand that will hold the bow (left hand for righ handed bow, right hand for left handed bow). 4. Shuffle towards the wall and place the fist on the wall. 5. Now look over your shoulder down the length of your arm. 6. Have someone measure from the wall to the corner of your mouth. This is a rough estimate on finding out your draw length. It is important to never overestimate your draw length. What matters most is accuracy of the measurement, not how long your draw length is. John Dudley from Nock On archery has a good video about finding out your rough draw length as a beginner. Draw length will determine what compound bow you buy and how it is adjusted. For recurve archers it helps give you an idea on the length of bow you can purchase.