How do you use grids, guides, and alignment tools to improve your QGIS map layout design?

3 How to use guides in QGIS layout?

Guides are flexible and precise tools for placing and aligning layout items. You can create guides by dragging them from the horizontal or vertical rulers. You can also double-click on the rulers to enter a specific guide position. You can move, lock, or delete guides by right-clicking on them. You can also snap items to guides by enabling the snapping option from the Layout menu or by pressing Ctrl+Shift+S.

4 How to use alignment tools in QGIS layout?

Alignment tools are handy for adjusting the relative position of multiple layout items. You can select the items you want to align by holding Ctrl and clicking on them. Then, you can use the alignment tools from the Layout menu or the toolbar to align them to the left, right, top, bottom, center, or middle. You can also distribute them evenly along the horizontal or vertical axis. Alternatively, you can use the Align to item option from the Item Properties panel to align an item to another item.

5 How to use grids, guides, and alignment tools together?

Grids, guides, and alignment tools are complementary features that can help you create a harmonious and professional map layout. You can use grids as a general framework for dividing the page and arranging the main elements. You can use guides as a fine-tuning tool for marking specific locations and snapping items to them. You can use alignment tools as a finishing touch for adjusting the relative position and spacing of items. By using these tools together, you can ensure that your map layout is consistent, balanced, and appealing.

6 Tips and tricks for QGIS map layout design

If you want to improve your QGIS map layout design, there are several tips and tricks you can use. Set a grid size that matches your page size and layout margins. For example, if your page is A4 and the margins are 10 mm, use a grid size of 10 mm. Guides can help create visual hierarchy and contrast, while alignment tools can be used to create symmetry and harmony. You can also use the Select/Move item tool (the arrow icon) to move items freely on the page, or use the arrow keys to nudge items by one pixel or 10 pixels (if you hold Shift). The Resize item tool (the square icon) allows you to resize items proportionally or by dragging their corners or edges, and the Ctrl key helps you resize items from the center.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?