Learn GIS using free software. The book is based off a 2 day seminar course that taught thousands of laymen to use GIS. It covers the basics of GIS, gives examples, and then guides you through a working project of mapping out an area in Texas to allow you to understand and master the basics of GIS and cartography. Shows where to get free data and how to check that data for validity. While this book teaches GIS via the open source program of Quantum GIS, it is applicable to any GIS program, whether it is ESRI ArcView, Microstation, or uDIG. Chapters include: Basic Background About Maps What is GIS? Coordinate Systems and Projections An Overview of GIS and Open-Source Programs Finding GIS Data Using Quantum GIS Adding Data Layers Customizing a GIS Project Working With The Attribute Table Downsizing Data from a Layer QGIS Plugins Measurement Tools Creating and Editing Layers Print Composer: Exporting a Map 134 pages