Knowing how to read a map isn't innate. The symbols, topography lines and direction helpers all require some understanding before you can read a map effectively. So, when Google Maps deserts you and you're left holding a real map, here is what to do. Here's Tips On How to Read a Map :
- How to read maps. Choose the right map. Invest in a good map. A detailed map is worth the money. Look for a Rand McNally Map Book of the United States at truck stops. In the UK, look for an Ordnance survey map (ideally not explorer, though better than an A5 national map). A map is a navigation aid. A wide variety of maps is available for a wide variety of uses. For example, there are road maps (for drivers; with all the roads available) or tourist maps (for the tourist, usually available at Tourism Boards of the locality and have areas of interest clearly labeled on the maps) and maps for hikers or back country users that feature topographical, geographical and other specific features to help with specific activities. So figure out what you want to do and pick the correct map. Visit a decent map shop for expert assistance in choosing a map.
- Check the map's orientation. Most how to read maps are drawn with north located at the top. West is therefore left, east is right and south is at the base of the map. This enables you to turn the map until it is facing the real directions wherever you're located. Sometimes this may be depicted using a "compass rose" or a cross-like shape. Or, it might simply be stated to be the assumption of the map. If there is nothing there, presume it is north at the top unless this clearly doesn't make sense.
- Understand how do i read a map. Maps are made in scales and these differ in size from map to map. Look for the scale in the form of a ratio, located on the side or bottom of the map. It will look something like 1:100,000, which denotes that 1 unit on the map is the equivalent of 100,000 units in real life.
- Note the recording of the latitude and longitude. The latitude refers to the distance in degrees north or south of the equator. The longitude refers to the distance in degrees east or west of the Greenwich Meridian Line. Each degree is divided into 60 minutes, with each minute representing a nautical mile (or 1.15 land miles/1.85km). This means that one degree is the equivalent of 60 nautical miles or 69 land miles/111km.
- Learn how do you read a map. How high or flat the land is is represented on the map by using contour lines. Each line represents a standard height above sea level. When contour lines are close together, this means that the gradient is steep (the closer together, the steeper the gradient becomes). When the contour lines are further apart, the gradient is flatter, so the further apart they are located, the flatter the ground on the map.
- Look for the map symbols denoting particular items of interest. Most maps have a legend or key of symbols on the map itself and since the origin of the map doesn't necessarily conform to any standard, always look for the legend or key first.
- Figure out where you are. You have your map and you're ready to use it. Now you need to figure out where you are on it before you can plot your route. You can do so by matching what you can see in real life with what is on the map. Common features that help identify your location on a map includes road names, landmarks and prominent natural features, like rivers.
- Find the location you want go. Now it's time to figure out where you want to go. If you just want to go from one place to another, all you need to do is to plot that single route out. However, if there are several places you intend to go to, you need to plan your route in such a way that you visit all the places in the shortest possible manner. You can do so by going to the nearest places first after which you will go to the further places.
- Use the map's index. Some maps have indexes stating the location of certain places on a map. This location could be grid numbers or pages. You should take note of a map's scale (distances between points) so that you can estimate your travel time and if you are taking longer then you expected, you should stop to recheck your map. You should also take note of a map's legend, this will let you know what you are looking at.
- Plot the route out in your mind or with a pen. Now you have figured out where you want to go, plot the route for your first journey in your mind. You could also draw out your route with a pen, but that would be permanently imprinted on the map.
- Travel to the desired spot with the map. Here is where you need to ensure you are 'On Course' as plotted. If you miss out this step, you may be seriously off course before you realise it. You can check you are on course by counter-checking landmarks or road that are on the map on on-route when you actually pass them. Refer to the pictures and example below to get an idea on how to do how to read a map.
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