A slant monument has a steeply angled face but the back is perpendicular. The top of the slant is much thinner than the bottom. Slants may be used by themselves, or they may be placed on a base. Two major sub-categories exist - the traditional style has a front nosing and the western style (or full face) does not.

Typically, these consist of 2 main pieces. The upright portion (called a die or tablet) and the bottom portion (called a base). Flower vases are a common option and can be added on one or both ends.