Introduction to Digital Mapping Using QGIS

Learn to add vector and raster data in QGIS by dragging layers, zooming to layers, and using the data source manager to load shapefiles and digital terrain models.

Explore coordinate reference systems in QGIS and how EPSG codes shape latitude and longitude into flat projections. Use Mercator, North American Albers Equal Area Conic, and WGS 84 for Massachusetts.

Learn to use the screen measurement tool in QGIS to measure lines, areas, and angles, switch units between meters and feet, and view area calculations.

Master querying in QGIS with the query builder and SQL to filter Massachusetts towns by population, revealing Boston, Worcester, and Springfield.

Symbolize by values using graduated symbology, classify population data with equal count quintile, and adjust color ramps to compare Massachusetts towns.

Label points in QGIS by using the name column from the Nantucket lighthouse data, then customize font, size, color, spacing, alignment, and optional shadows, buffers, and placement.

Explore natural earth data, a free public-domain base map for small-scale world maps. Access raster and vector layers such as country boundaries, admin levels, coastlines, and terrain to build accurate maps.

Open street map offers a worldwide, community generated interface with searchable places, layers, and downloadable data you can pull into your GIS project, edit, and contribute without copyright fees.

Learn to clip railways within the town boundary of Sandwich, Massachusetts in QGIS, using input and overlay layers to create a focused, temporary clipped layer.

Use the dissolve tool to merge multiple features into a single boundary, such as outlining Massachusetts or a drinking water protection zone by removing interior lines.

Create a hillshade from a digital elevation model using the raster analysis hillshade tool via the processing toolbox, adjusting azimuth and altitude to simulate an artificial sun and shadows.

Extract and display 10-meter contour lines from a raster to represent elevation with minimal map clutter, labeling lines with elevation values and optionally converting to feet for US audiences.

Add titles and text to map layouts in QGIS, adjusting fonts, sizes, alignment, and snapping to guides, then group, lock, or frame elements for clean, publish-ready maps.

Add and customize a legend for your map layout by selecting layers, removing unused items, renaming labels, and adjusting formatting and columns for a clean, readable display.