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Map
 A map is a reduced picture of the terrain. The determined
proportion between the distances on the map and the corresponding distance
on the ground is called a map scale. To obtain the corresponding distance
in the field, the distance on the map must be multiplied by the divider of
the scale.
The most common scales are 1:10 000, 1:15 000, 1:25 000 and 1:50 000. For
example, the scale 1:10 000 means that 1 cm on the map corresponds to 10
000 cm = 100 m in the terrain.
The features of the terrain cannot be shown on the map exactly as they
appear on the field. Therefore, “map language” is used, i.e., colours
and symbols to indicate the details of the landscape on the map.
There are many types of maps produced for various purposes. A topographic
map is perhaps the best choice for a person who wants to explore the
outdoors and learn the use of the map and compass. The specific property
of a topographic map is that it shows the shape and elevation of the
terrain by brown contour lines.
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Obtaining a travel direction from a map
Use the following procedure to obtain an exact travel direction towards
your desired destination:
- Place the compass on the map so that the long edge connects the
starting point with the desired destination. Make sure that the direction
arrow is pointing from the starting point to the destination - not the
opposite way.
- Hold the compass firmly on the map in order to keep the baseplate
steady. Turn the capsule until the North-South line on the bottom of the
capsule is parallel with the magnetic meridian lines on the map. Check
that the “N” marks on the bottom of the capsule points to North on the
map, i.e., direction marked with “N” at the top of magnetic meridian
lines on the map.
- Hold the compass in your hand in front of you. Make sure that the
baseplate is in a horizontal position, and that the direction arrow is
pointing straight ahead.
- Rotate your body until the “N” marks on the bottom of the capsule
lines up directly under the magnetic needle.
- The travel direction can now be read along the direction
arrow.
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Contour lines
Contour lines can be thought of as a map connecting points of equal
elevation. Each contour line represents one specific level of elevation.
The contour interval, which is shown in the map margin, (e.g., 3 m), is
the constant difference in elevation between two adjacent contour
lines.
When travelling in the woods, you cannot actually see the contour of the
terrain. The shapes that they form on the map and on the terrain indicate
their approximate location.
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Orientation of a map
To be able to read a map, you must first orient it to the direction of
your travel. To do this, turn your map until the details of the map
correspond with the landscape in front of you. Keep the map oriented with
the landscape at all times while proceeding along your route.
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