2.2. Lesson: Adding your first layer¶
We will start the application, and create a basic map to use for examples and exercises.
The goal for this lesson: To get started with an example map.
Note
Before starting this exercise, QGIS must be installed on your computer. Also, you should have downloaded the sample data to use.
Launch QGIS from its desktop shortcut, menu item, etc., depending on how you configured its installation.
Note
The screenshots for this course were taken in QGIS 3.4 running on Linux. Depending on your setup, the screens you encounter may well appear somewhat different. However, all the same buttons will still be available, and the instructions will work on any OS. You will need QGIS 3.4 (the latest version at time of writing) to use this course.
Let’s get started right away!
2.2.1. Follow Along: Prepare a map¶
Open QGIS. You will have a new, blank map.
The Data Source Manager dialog allows you to choose the data to load depending on the data type. We’ll use it to load our dataset: click the Open Data Source Manager button.
If you can’t find the icon, check that the Data Source Manager toolbar is enabled in the menu.
Load the
protected_areas.shp
vector dataset:Click on the Vector tab.
Press the … button next to Vector Dataset(s).
Select the
exercise_data/shapefile/protected_areas.shp
file in your training directory.Click Open. You will see the original dialog, with the file path filled in.
Click Add here as well. The data you specified will now load: you can see a
protected_areas
item in the Layers panel (bottom left) with its features shown in the main map canvas.
Congratulations! You now have a basic map. Now would be a good time to save your work.
2.2.2. Try Yourself¶
Repeat the steps above to add the places.shp
and rivers.shp
layers from the same folder (exercise_data/shapefile
) to the map.
2.2.3. In Conclusion¶
You’ve learned how to add a layer from a Shapefile dataset and create a basic map!
2.2.4. What’s Next?¶
Now you’re familiar with the basic function of the Open Data Source Manager button, but what about all the others? How does this interface work? Before we go on, let’s first take a look at the layout of the QGIS interface. This is the topic of the next lesson.