Introduction to Spatial Analysis with QGIS

Geographic information is at the heart of how we understand cities, environments, and community resources. If you want to make sense of spatial data but do not know where to start, mastering an open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) is your best first step. This text-based course guides you through the foundational concepts and practical techniques of spatial analysis using QGIS. You will transition from a complete beginner to a confident mapmaker who can manipulate geographic datasets and extract meaningful spatial patterns. Starting with core terminology like coordinate reference systems and vector data structures, you will quickly progress to hands-on analysis. What you'll learn: - Understand core GIS concepts including map projections, coordinate reference systems, and attribute tables - Navigate the QGIS interface to import, style, and manage vector and raster datasets - Perform spatial queries and selections to isolate specific geographic features - Apply essential geoprocessing tools such as buffering, clipping, and spatial joins - Design clear and communicative map layouts with scale bars, legends, and proper symbology - Practice cleaning and preparing real-world spatial data for urban planning analysis This course begins with essential theoretical definitions before guiding you through structured, step-by-step written tutorials that build your practical mapping skills. You will work with realistic scenarios to solve spatial questions systematically. This course is designed for absolute beginners, urban planning students, researchers, and professionals who need to work with geographic data but have no prior GIS experience. Start reading today to unlock the power of spatial analysis and begin building your own maps.