Map reading is the skill of understanding and interpreting maps to find locations and navigate through different terrains. A map is a visual representation of an area, showing features like roads, rivers, and landmarks. By learning to read symbols and scales on a map, you can determine distances and directions, making it easier to plan your journey. To improve your map reading skills, it's helpful to practice with different types of maps, such as topographic maps that show elevation changes or city maps that highlight streets and buildings. Familiarizing yourself with a compass can also enhance your navigation abilities, allowing you to orient yourself in the right direction.