Conventional Symbols Used in Surveying

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In this article, we will discuss conventional symbols used in surveying.

Surveying is the art of determining the relative position of various features above, on, or beneath the surface of the earth by means of different instruments.

As per the definition given out by the American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (ACSM),

“Surveying is the science and art of making all essential measurements to determine the relative position of points or physical and cultural details above, on, or beneath the surface of the earth, and to depict them in a usable form, or to establish the position of points or details”.

Surveying is basically conducted for measuring the linear parameters as well as the angular parameters for the establishment of points by means of which the plans and maps can be prepared.

Some of the important equipment used in surveying include theodolite, compass, auto-level, chains, tapes, leveling staff, total station, etc.

Surveying is the most important before and after all the civil engineering works such as designing and constructing roads, buildings, bridges, irrigation, water supply systems, etc.

It basically provides the basic framework for the conception, design, and execution of the construction works.

The process of surveying includes both fieldwork and office work. This is because the measurements are taken in the field and the relevant mathematical calculations for the determination of the distances, angles, directions, elevations, locations, areas, and volumes are done in the office.