Learn QGIS - Fourth Edition

Measuring data

The measure tool does not require a layer to be selected in the layer panel in order for it to work. This means that it is independent of a layer(s). The measure tool can measure length, area, or angle, and you can use the drop-down button next to the tool to select the required option. In this example, let's measure length. Select the measure line option and then left-click on the map to begin the measurement. After doing this, left-click again to measure the segment. Continue to left-click to measure segments of the line or right-click on the end point to finish measuring.

The following diagram shows a series of left clicks on the Alaska layer:

Measuring distance in QGIS

Use the drop-down boxes to adjust the units of measurement ...