Advantages of Plane Table Surveying
Plane table surveying offers many advantages over other types of surveying methods. One of the main advantages of plane table surveying is that it provides a graphical representation of the topographic features to be mapped. This allows the surveyor to quickly and easily identify features that would otherwise be difficult to locate. Additionally, the surveyor can make quick adjustments to the survey data without having to wait for the results to be processed. Furthermore, plane table surveying is more accurate than other survey methods due to the ability to account for minute and subtle changes in the terrain.
Disadvantages of Plane Table Surveying
Despite its many advantages, plane table surveying is not without its drawbacks. One major disadvantage of plane table surveying is its time-consuming nature. The surveyor must take time to accurately plot the topographic features onto the plane table, which can be a lengthy process. Furthermore, plane table surveying requires the surveyor to be in the same location for an extended period of time, which can be difficult to achieve in certain areas. Additionally, plane table surveying requires expensive and specialized equipment to be used, making it an expensive surveying method.

Advantages of Plane Table Survey
Advantages of Plane Table Surveying
Plane table surveying is one of the most commonly used and suitable methods for surveying and preparing small scale maps. It is a cost effective technique as it does not require any machines and can be used in places with high magnetic fluctuations, where compass survey is unreliable. It also has the advantage of being a rapid surveying technique with minimal human and machine errors.
Elimination of Human and Machine Errors
As the surveying and plotting are done simultaneously in the field, all possible human and machine errors can be eliminated. This helps to ensure the accuracy of the survey and the resulting map. Additionally, the errors and mistakes in plotting can be checked by drawing check lines.
Cost Efficiency
Plane table surveying does not require any machines, making it a cost-effective surveying technique. It does not require skilled personal to plot the map, allowing for lower labor costs as well.
Accurate Representation of Irregular Objects
Contours and other irregular objects may be accurately represented on the map since the tract is in view. This allows for a more accurate map to be created, which can be beneficial in many situations.
Check Lines and Error Elimination
Errors occurring due to mistakes in the field book entry can be eliminated as the surveying and plotting are done simultaneously in the field. Additionally, the errors and mistakes in plotting can be checked by drawing check lines. This helps to ensure the accuracy of the survey and the resulting map.
Disadvantages of Plane Table Survey
Disadvantages of Plane Table Surveying
The process of shifting and re-orienting the plane table from one place to another is very lengthy and can be inconvenient for surveying large areas. Additionally, due to the accessory’s weight and size, it can be difficult to carry around. Furthermore, this type of surveying is not feasible in raining and windy areas as the plotting work must be done in the field.
Accuracy of Plane Table Surveying
The accuracy achieved in other types of surveying is higher than the accuracy achieved by plane table surveying. If the survey is to be re-plotted to a different scale or quantities are to be computed, it is a great inconvenience in the absence of the field notes.
Inability to Survey Areas with Obstructions
This method of surveying is not suitable in dense forest areas as the trees block the view of other important components of the field. Additionally, this method of surveying can only be done in the day time.