What must be done to a map before it can be effectively used?

To effectively use a map, it must be oriented. Orientation involves aligning the map with the actual terrain or the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west). This is crucial because it allows you to correctly relate the geographical features shown on the map to the physical landscape you are navigating. By ensuring the map is oriented, you can accurately identify your location, the direction you need to travel, and locate landmarks, helping to prevent navigational errors.

Folding a map may be practical for carrying, but it does not enhance navigational accuracy or usability on its own. Shading can provide a visual representation of elevation or terrain features, but it is not a prerequisite for using the map effectively. Laminating a map can protect it from wear and tear, yet it does not directly contribute to the map's usability in terms of orientation. Therefore, orienting the map is the primary action needed to ensure effective navigation.