When selecting checkpoints for navigation, what types of features should be used for easy identification?

The best choice for selecting checkpoints for navigation focuses on prominent features, as these are typically large, easily recognizable, and distinct in their environment. Prominent features are often natural or man-made structures that stand out against the surrounding landscape, such as mountains, tall buildings, or iconic landmarks. Their visibility from a distance aids in ensuring that navigators can reliably identify their location and confirm that they are on the correct path.

Using prominent features minimizes the risk of navigational error, as these features can be identified from various angles and distances, providing clear reference points. This is especially useful in complex terrain where other features may blend in with the surroundings or be less recognizable.

While landmarks, waypoints, and topographical lines can also serve as navigation points, they may not always offer the same level of clarity and recognition as prominent features. For instance, landmarks can vary widely in their visibility, and waypoints may represent specific GPS coordinates that are not inherently visible in the real world. Topographical lines, while useful for understanding elevation changes, do not provide identifiable points in the same way that prominent features do. Therefore, using prominent features is the most effective choice for easy identification during navigation.