American Land Title Association (ALTA) Practice Exam

The north arrow on a survey is oriented to the top of the drawing when practicable because this standard format allows for easier interpretation and consistency across various surveys and maps. When the north direction aligns with the top of the drawing, it helps users immediately understand the orientation of the properties and features being represented. This practice facilitates navigation, as viewers typically expect that north will be at the top of the map, making it intuitive for them to relate the survey to real-world directions. Maintaining this orientation not only supports clarity in understanding the layout of the land but also aids in comparing multiple surveys where all north arrows point similarly, thus avoiding confusion. Additionally, many regulatory and professional standards encourage this convention, reinforcing its importance in practice.