Methods of Squares

This method is extremely suitable while the area to be surveyed is small. This method is also known as coordinate method of locating contours. The area to be surveyed is divided within a number of squares forming a grid. The side of a square might vary from 5 to 20 m depending upon the nature of the contour and contour interval. The elevations of the corner of squares are then determined through using a level and a staff. The levels are then contour lines are drawn and interpolated. Sometimes rectangles might also be used in place of squares.

                                      Figure : Method of Squares for Locating Contours