This guide explains how to use the Traverse plugin inside QGIS.

Launching the Plugin

  1. Open QGIS.
  2. Click the Traverse icon in the toolbar.
  3. The Traverse dock panel will open.

Creating a New Traverse

  1. Click New Traverse.
  2. Select or create a line layer.
  3. Ensure the layer is in edit mode.
  4. Begin entering traverse points.

Adding Traverse Points

You can add points by:

  • Clicking directly on the map canvas
  • Entering coordinate values manually
  • Entering bearing and distance (if supported)

Each new point automatically connects to the previous point, forming a continuous line.

Editing Points

  • Select a vertex to move it.
  • Delete selected points using the delete option.
  • Modify coordinates in the panel.
  • Changes update the traverse geometry immediately.

Saving Your Work

Traverse geometries are stored in the active line layer.

To save permanently:

  1. Toggle editing off.
  2. Click Save when prompted.

Exporting the Traverse

To export your traverse:

  1. Right-click the layer.
  2. Select:
Export → Save Features As
  1. Choose format:
    • Shapefile (.shp)
    • GeoPackage (.gpkg)
    • GeoJSON (.geojson)
    • CSV (if attribute-based)

Best Practices

  • Confirm your project CRS before starting.
  • Use snapping for accurate point placement.
  • Save edits frequently.
  • Work in projected coordinate systems for accurate distance calculations.

Common Issues

Nothing happens when clicking

  • Ensure the layer is in edit mode.

Geometry not saving

  • Confirm editing is enabled.

Plugin not visible

  • Enable it in Plugin Manager.

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