text: FM 2-22.3 _________________________________________________________________________________
  is a detailed description of the process to establish the map-reading skills of
  the source.
  • The HUMINT collector asks the source if he can read the map being
  used. If the source answers in the affirmative, the HUMINT collector
  asks some key questions to verify this.
  • If the source cannot read the map being used, the HUMINT collector
  determines if the source can read another type of available map or
  graphic representation. For example, a source may not be able to read
  a military map but might be able to use a commercial map or an
  imagery product.
  • The HUMINT collector then establishes the method that will be used
  to describe movement (direction and distance) on the map. If the source
  knows how to use compass directions, that may be the most expedient
  method for determining direction. Again, the HUMINT collector must
  verify that the source knows how to use compass directions. This can
  be done best by having the source tell the compass directions between
  known points. Distance is normally determined by using the standard
  units of measurement with which the source is familiar, such as
  kilometers or miles. This can cause some problems, for example, if the
  map is measured in kilometers and the source normally expresses
  distance in miles. The HUMINT collector must make the adjustment
  rather than trying to teach the source the unfamiliar system.
  • Compass directions and standard units of measure are not the only
  method or necessarily even the best method of indicating direction and
  distance in all circumstances. When using an urban map, direction and
  distance can often be described by indicating blocks traveled and turns
  made (right or left) at intersections. Direction of travel can be indicated
  in reference to key features such as going toward the downtown area or
  moving toward the river. When describing the interior of a building,
  references may be to upstairs, downstairs, floor number, or other
  descriptive terms. When map tracking in rural areas, especially when
  questioning someone who does not know how to use compass
  directions, terrain association is normally the best method of
  establishing direction of travel and distance. Questions such as “Were
  you traveling uphill at that time?” “What prominent terrain features
  could you see from that location?” “What was the nearest town?” or
  “Was the sun behind you?” help to identify locations on the map. The
  HUMINT collector should allow the source to use his own frames of
  reference. However, the HUMINT collector must ensure he
  understands the source.
  ESTABLISH AND EXPLOIT COMMON POINTS OF REFERENCE
  9-39. The second step of map tracking is to establish CPRs. It is important in
  accurate map tracking to talk the source through his past activities in the
  sequence in which they occurred and his movements in the direction in which
  they were traveled. Attempting to track a source backward in time and space
  is time consuming, inaccurate, and is often confusing to both the source and
  the HUMINT collector. Future activities should be tracked in the direction in