For a soldier, knowing where you are is a matter of life and death, and so it comes as no surprise that the army has produced the most complete, clear and thorough guide to map reading and navigation available. The book starts with a comprehensive explanation of the meaning and uses of maps, whether photographic, planimetric (standardstyle) or topographic, then progresses to discuss the use of those maps, discussing compass techniques, celestial navigation and determination of distance. There is a detailed section on interpreting topographic maps, with notes on tactical considerations for differing terrain, as well as determining the ease of movement through an area.