What should be done before starting a navigation exercise?

Before embarking on a navigation exercise, conducting a thorough map study is essential for several reasons. A comprehensive map study enables participants to familiarize themselves with the terrain, understand the features depicted on the map, and identify key landmarks that could assist in navigation. This preparation allows individuals to visualize the route, anticipate challenges, and establish waypoints for tracking progress throughout the exercise.

By analyzing the map prior to starting, navigators can also gain insight into elevation changes, potential obstacles, and available paths, which contributes to better decision-making during the exercise. It sets the stage for a successful navigation effort rather than leaving participants to navigate without guidance or a clear understanding of the area, which may lead to confusion and inefficiencies.

In contrast to conducting a thorough map study, gathering a team without a plan, beginning navigation immediately, or simply going out to explore these approaches lack the necessary preparation. They may risk poor coordination and potentially unsafe navigation as team members might not share the same understanding of objectives or routes, leading to disorganization and increased risk of navigation errors.