Tutorials

On this page you can find some information that we found useful to collect in one place, and some other resources.

Maps and cartography

Map projections

This tutorial discusses how to deal with map projections. We present an example implementation of the most commonly used map projection on the web, the Web Mercator projection. We provide both an implementation in C++ and one in Java for download and use in projects.
Using Natural Earth data

If you need an overview map of a certain region, you can make one using data from Natural Earth and the free GIS software QGIS. Specifically, in this tutorial, we show how to make a vector map in Ipe format containing just the shapes of the countries, that you can use for cartogram algorithms.
Using OpenStreetMap data (in preparation)

OpenStreetMap is an open, freely editable repository of geodata. This data can be useful for research purposes. This tutorial aims to give an overview of what data is available, how to get it, and what to do with it. We will especially focus on topics that are relevant while implementing algorithms that run on OpenStreetMap data, and on how to use OpenStreetMap data for visualizing data. For more general information about OpenStreetMap, please consult the OpenStreetMap Wiki.

Ipe tricks

This is a collection of useful tricks when using Ipe. Covers gradients, clipping paths and using custom fonts.
Using Blender figures in Ipe

This tutorial shows how to render 3D figures in Blender and import them into Ipe for further editing.

PowerPoint tricks

This is a collection of useful tricks when using PowerPoint. It mainly covers Morph transitions.
Using Ipe figures in PowerPoint

This tutorial shows how Ipe figures can be included in PowerPoint slides as vector graphics.