This section of the tutorial is going to show you how to create a map using a pre-existing dataset.

• Download the Natural Earth Quick Start Kit dataset here and extract it.

• Now, using the spotlight search open the QGIS software.



• Once QGIS is open, click the Open under Project.



• This will open a new window. From here navigate to the extracted folder and select the file titled Natural_Earth_quick_start_for_QGIS.qgs and click open.



• Once the file is open it should look like the following:



• Use the zoom tool (located towards the top of the window) to zoom in on the North Carolna coast.



• Next, we're going to uncheck a couple of layers. Unchecking a layer removes it from immediate view. This will make our map a bit more readable.

• Layers are located in the lower left corner of the window and is label accordingly.

• Uncheck the boxes labeled 10m_geography_marine_polys and 10m_admin_0_map_units.



• In the next tutorial we will add some standard map elements.

Continue to next tutorial.