How to read control descriptions
What are orienteering control descriptions and how do you read them?
Short answer
Control descriptions are a table telling you exactly what feature each control is on and where the flag is. They use IOF symbols, one row per control. The row gives the control number, control code, which feature (for example a pit), details of the feature and the flag's position relative to it (for example the north side). On beginner courses they are often given in plain text as well.
The layout
The header gives the event name, course, course length and total climb. Then one row per control:
| Column | Tells you | Example |
|---|---|---|
| A | Control number | 3 |
| B | Control code (on the flag) | 47 |
| C | Which of similar features | northern |
| D | Feature | pit, boulder, path junction |
| E | Appearance | shallow, stony |
| F | Dimensions | 1.5 m |
| G | Flag position | north side, foot, top |
| H | Other information | water, first aid |
The last row describes the route from the last control to the finish, e.g. “follow tapes 150 m”.
Common descriptions
- Path junction
- Boulder, foot — the flag is at the base of the boulder
- Pit, north side
- Re-entrant, upper part
- Knoll, top
- Building, north-east corner — common in sprints
- Forest edge, outside corner
How to use them
- Read the description before you set off to the control: if you know what you’re looking for, you’ll see it from further away.
- Use the position (column G) in your plan: “north side” suggests approaching from the north.
- Check the code, then punch.
At Kanyon Orienteering’s taster sessions and school programmes, descriptions are also given in plain Turkish and English. Learn the symbols in the Map Lab and the Glossary.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the control code matter?
Controls from other courses may be nearby. Check that the code on the flag matches your description before punching; punching the wrong control can disqualify you.
Where are the control descriptions?
Printed on the map and, at most races, also handed out at the start on a separate slip that you put in a holder on your arm.
Sources and further reading
Related guides
- How to read an orienteering mapHow to read an orienteering map: colours, symbols, scale, contours and magnetic north lines, explained step by step for beginners.
- Orienteering techniquesEight core orienteering techniques - map orientation, thumbing, handrails, catching features, attack points, aiming off, traffic-light pacing and relocation.
- How electronic punching works in orienteeringElectronic punching in orienteering - SI chips, clear and check, control units, contactless punching, finish and download. What happens if you mispunch?