Before you ever start analyzing contours, you should determine the contour interval which is found in the bottom center of the map.

To determine the elevation of a point, you must have a reference line from which to start. This reference line is an index contour. As noted earlier, an index contour is one that is a bolder, darker contour line and has a value written on the line ever so often.

First, find the value of the index contour addressed in the question and then follow the line until you see a number associated with the line. This begins the "counting" process that will help you determine the elevation of your point. If there is not value on the line, then use other lines to determine the value.

Look at the following examples and write down the index contour nearest the point shown. Check your work by clicking on the question. This page contains three practice maps. The third question is a little different than the first two, but you should have no problem with it. GOOD LUCK!.

REMEMBER: Practice Makes Perfect! (and a perfect score on your topo map exam is what you want!)

ANSWER 1: 500 feet. The best way to solve this problem is to follow the contour line until you see the value of 500. This was a very basic question, click here to get another question.