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How to use annotation tools on your 2D map

Using Birdi's map annotation tools is designed for intuitive and efficient use.

Kayley Greenland avatar
Written by Kayley Greenland
Updated this week

Step 1: Open a map

Go to the map you want to annotate.

Step 2: Choose your layer

  • Ensure the relevant output in the Layer panel is visible. You can switch off the other layers to ensure you only see the layer you want to annotate.

  • Alternately, select the satellite icon in the bottom of the map and choose this one to annotate on

Step 3: Select an annotation tool

  • Select the relevant annotation tool to suit your needs. Annotation tools like markers, lines, polygons are available. You will find these along the top of your interface.

  • Use markers to pinpoint a location

  • Polygons to draw around and measure an area of interest

  • Lines to measure distances

Adding Markers:

  1. Click the marker tool icon or press Command + M (Mac) / Ctrl + M (Windows).

  2. Click on the map where you want to place the marker.

  3. A dialog box may appear to add details such as a name or description.

Drawing Lines

  1. Select the line tool icon or press Command + L (Mac) / Ctrl + L (Windows).

  2. Click on the map to begin drawing, adding points to define the line's path.

  3. A dialog box will often appear to add or adjust details.

  4. You can double click to complete the annotation

Drawing Polygons:

  • Select the polygon tool or press Command + P (Mac) / Ctrl + P (Windows).

  • For a freehand polygon, press Command + Shift + P (Mac) / Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows).

  • Click on the map to create vertices and complete the shape by clicking back on the starting point or pushing enter on your keyboard

  • Add details or make style updates in the layers toolbox

Step 4: Adjust and Edit Annotations

  • Click any annotation and hit enter on your keyboard to edit, or delete it.

  • Use editing tools to modify its shape

  • Press enter to complete your annotation

You can also edit by

  • Double click an annotation on the map to start editing it.

  • Double click while editing a polygon or line annotation to finish editing it.

  • Dragging a polygon annotation while editing it to relocate it.

Refer to Birdi’s guide on styling annotations for additional customization tips.

Step 5: Save Your Annotations

  • Ensure your work is saved by clicking off the annotation or pressing Enter.

Step 6: Share and Export Annotations

  • Use Birdi’s sharing features to collaborate with team members or export your annotated map for reports and presentations.

  • Invite team members to review and provide feedback on your annotations.

  • Adjust permissions to control who can view or edit the annotations.

By following these steps, you can effectively use Birdi’s annotation tools to enhance your mapping projects. From here, you can customise your annotations using the below guide:

For further assistance, refer to Birdi’s support resources or contact us via chat.

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