Grid References
A grid reference uses numbered gridlines to give the exact location of a feature on a map.
▶ Interact
Play with the controls to see the idea in action.
📘 Learn
A grid reference uses numbered gridlines to give the exact location of a feature on a map.
- Give eastings first, then northings
- Four-figure references locate a square
- Six-figure references locate a point
🧠 Quick quiz
Three questions. Score 2 or more to complete the topic.
What is Grid References?
Within Geography, which covers maps, landforms, weather, climate, population and settlements: understand how our planet and people connect, this topic explains Grid References. Geography explains how places, people and natural processes connect, so each topic here combines a clear definition with a visual model.
Check that you can explain Grid References in your own words and give one example from everyday life. If you can do that, you have understood the core idea.
Understanding Grid References helps you explain patterns on maps and in the news, and make reasoned decisions about places and environments.
Grid References in detail
Grid references give the exact location on a map using the grid of numbered lines. Four-figure references identify a square, and six-figure references identify a spot within it to 100 metres. Eastings (vertical lines) are read first, going along the bottom, then northings (horizontal lines) going up: "along the corridor, then up the stairs".
For a six-figure reference, you estimate tenths between the lines, so the first three digits are the easting and the last three the northing. They are used by walkers, emergency services and in geographical enquiry to locate sites precisely and communicate clearly.
How the interactive helps you understand Grid References
Click a step, or use the Previous and Next buttons, to move through the sequence one stage at a time. Auto-play moves on for you.
Before you change anything, predict the result. Then change one value at a time and check whether your prediction was right. This is a quick way to build a correct mental model of Grid References.
Real-life uses and examples
- Interpret a graph or map that shows Grid References and say what it suggests.
- Describe a real place where Grid References can be seen, using a map or photograph.
- Explain how Grid References affects people, jobs and land use in a region.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing up cause, effect and consequence when you explain Grid References.
- Writing general statements without a named place or example.
- Learning the definition without testing it. Use the quiz and the interactive to check that you can apply the idea.
Frequently asked questions about Grid References
What is Grid References?
A grid reference uses numbered gridlines to give the exact location of a feature on a map.
What are the most important points about Grid References?
The main points are: Give eastings first, then northings; Four-figure references locate a square; Six-figure references locate a point.
Why is Grid References useful?
Understanding Grid References helps you explain patterns on maps and in the news, and make reasoned decisions about places and environments.
How can I practise Grid References?
Open the interactive at the top of this page and change the controls one at a time. Predict the result before each change, then take the three-question quiz. A score of two or more marks the topic as complete on this device.
Which topics are related to Grid References?
Related topics in Geography include Time Zones, Plate Boundaries, Living with Tectonic Hazards.