This document provides instructions on how to interpret and use a topographical map, including how to determine grid references, compass directions, measure distances and compass bearings, interpret contours, and use an 8- or 16-point compass. It explains how to measure straight and curved distances on a map using a string or paper and the scale. It also outlines the three step process to find the compass bearing between two locations by drawing a line between them, adding a north arrow, and measuring clockwise from north. Finally, it defines that contours connect areas of equal height and that the contour interval is the vertical distance between each contour line.

2. • Basic elements of a topographical map
• Grid References (4 figure grid reference,
6 figure grid reference)
• Compass Direction
• Measuring Distance (Straight, curved
distance)
• Measuring Compass Bearings
• Contours

4. AQUEDUCTS &
BRIDGES
POST OFFICE &
PARKING
ROADS
BEACONS &
LIGHTHOUSES
Lighthouse
Beacon
Parking
Post Office

8. The minimum you
should know is
the eight point
compass although
it would be better
to know the 16
point compass
shown here.

9. You can do this using two different methods.
1. Use your string to follow the curved distance and add up
the centimetres, then calculate using the scale line.
2. Use a piece of paper to make marks on it as you twist it.
REMEMBER WHICH EVER WAY YOU USE YOU MUST
USE THE SCALE TO WORK OUT THE DISTANCE IN
KILOMETRES (FOR A 1:50,000 MEASURE IN CM AND
THEN DIVIDE BY 2 AS 1 KM IS EQUAL TO 2CM)

10. • Find the compass bearing of hospital from
factory
X
X

11. • Find the compass bearing
of hospital from factory
1.Draw a straight line
connecting both places X
X

12. • Find the compass bearing
of hospital from factory
1.Draw a straight line
connecting both places
2.Draw a North arrow from
your current location
X
X

13. 1. Draw a straight line
connecting both places
2. Draw a North arrow from
your current location
3. Measure clockwise
starting from the north
arrow.
X
X

14. • Contours are imaginary lines connecting
places of equal height.

15. • Contour interval or vertical interval is the
distance between each contour line.
CI = 20m