ABSTRACT
Maps are indispensable in field archaeology. They help archaeologists to navigate, organise field surveys, record certain types of data (e.g. site locations) and communicate results to others. Most maps depict a mesh of latitude and longitude lines, with latitude running horizontally around the globe and longitude running vertically, roughly from the North to South Pole. Paper maps communicate a range of information intended for very different uses, and so the step in using a physical map is to find one that is relevant to our field research. A topographic map depicts relief (horizontal and vertical variations in terrain), together with the location of landmarks, roads and generalised information on vegetation. It will also indicate easting and northing values and latitude and longitude values. Compasses are essential for field navigation and all archaeologists should be familiar with their use, particularly if people are navigating (even with the aid of a global navigation satellite system handset), drawing plans or conducting site surveys.
