BASIC PRINCIPLES OF MAP READING

Map Title

Name of the most important map settlement

Map Scale

Travelling by car, cycle or foot, distances should be checked by comparing mileages indicated in guide post and that on the map

Scale mentioned by

1. statement
2. representative fraction
3. scale line
   

Measurement of distances

Opsiometer – measure distances

Conventional signs

Prepare a list of conventional signs and symbols

Divided in 2 groups

1. landscape features
2. non-landscape features
   

Direction

To be measured using Map and compass

True north
Grid North
Magnetic north

MAP MEASUREMENT

Measurement of Area

Squares method:

Divide the map into squares
Broken squares by give and take method
Area = Number of squares X area of Each Square

Strip Method

Strips of equal width, varying length
Area = total length X width

Map Scale Reduction

Lessen the grids, Coalesce

Representation of Relief

Contours

Interval of contours must remain constant in one map sheet
Contour lines thickened after regular interval
Close contour lines – steep slope
Distance contour lines – gentle slope
Regular contour lines – even slope

SOURCE

Map Reading And Interpretation
P.Speak And A.H.C.Carter