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Map Guides and Publications
Map Reading Guide: How to Use Topographic Maps
The Map Reading Guide is an ideal resource for a wide range of map users and is an excellent and simplistic introduction to topographic maps which are suitable for anyone with an interest in maps. It contains:
- an explanation of what is a topographic map
- steps on how to read topographic maps, including explanations of map scale and how to use a map scale to calculate
distance
- the differences between grid north, true north and magnetic north
- an explanation of symbols used on topographic map symbols
- how hills and mountains are shown on maps using relief shading, hypsometric tinting, and contours
- what a datum is and why there are different datum
- explanations of the difference between geographic and grid coordinates
- how to quote grid references from topographic maps
- how to plan a successful trip using topographic maps
- using Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and magnetic compasses with topographic maps
- using a topographic map to find your current position and to set a course.
- Download PDF of Reading Guide [PDF 1MB]
- Order a printed copy from the Sales Centre
Roamer
These useful see-through map cards are great for reading bearings, distances and grid references on 1:100 000 and
1:250 000 scale maps. The roamer can be purchased as part of the Map
Reading Guide from the Sales Centre.
A roamer can be used for determining the last Easting and last Northing figures for a six-figure grid reference:
- Place the top right hand corner intersection of the roamer lines over the point of interest.
- Read the numbers from this point to the left to give the final Easting figure, and down to give the final Northing figure.
- The number required is the last number read, before the grid line on the map crosses the roamer.
Introduction to Topographic Maps
This book provides a comprehensive introduction to understanding and reading topographic maps, and
are ideal for high school students and above. Order printed copies from the Sales Centre.
