What does the term "resection" mean in the context of map reading?

In the context of map reading, "resection" is a technique used to determine one's current location on a map by using known points that can be identified on both the map and in the environment. This involves taking bearings to at least two recognizable landmarks, which are plotted on the map. By finding the grid azimuth to these known locations, the navigator can create intersecting lines that denote their position, effectively triangulating their whereabouts.

This process is essential for maintaining situational awareness and ensuring accurate navigation, especially in unfamiliar terrain where GPS might not be available. Resection relies heavily on understanding the relationship between map reading and the physical landscape, which is why knowing how to find the grid azimuth to those known locations is pivotal in effectively using the technique.