Contributed by Jennifer Andrews, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

Geography may not have been your most favorite subject as a student but it is an important one to learn.

Defined as the study of the earth and its atmosphere’s physical characteristics, geography also refers to how human activities affect these characteristics and places. In addition to teaching us about the world, geography can also be extremely interesting. Try one of these top ten ways to learn geography and get started today!

10. Map it out

One of the most practical ways to learn geography is to take out world maps and start studying them. If you want to get more specific, find maps of each country and particular regions. Get different kinds of maps, such as topographical maps, economic maps, maps of natural resources or maps by ethnic group or religion to really get to know the world in a meaningful way. It’s not just about lines and names, after all.

9. Atlas

An atlas is a handy tool to use for learning geography. This book contains a collection of maps to simplify your search as well as appropriate diagrams and charts. Invest in a world atlas, but consider adding regional or country atlases as well so you can see the details and really get to know each location.

8. Spin the Globe

Plant a globe on your desk as a fun and visual way to help you learn geography. Play a game by spinning the globe and guessing the name of the country your finger lands on at the end. You can even plan a virtual trip to that location. That way, you’ll be able to learn about the currency, attractions, food and other details without spending a dime!

7. Flash cards

Flash cards can be used to help you study and learn most subjects and details effectively. Consider writing up cards to help you memorize the city capitals of various countries. Flash cards, as well as other geography games that make memorization fun, are a great way to learn geography.

6. Write it down

Taking notes to help you learn geography the old-fashioned way. Writing down the names of countries, states, capitals and other important facts provides a helpful guide for study purposes as well as assisting in memorization. Create a “travel” journal of the places you learn about, and you’ll soon find that the world feels much friendlier and more like home, no matter how different from the place you hang your hat.

5. Magazines

Learn geography by reading and studying world-wide magazines including that of National Geographic which can teach you interesting facts about the world.

4. Unique facts

It can be easier to learn geography if you find unique facts about different countries and parts of the world. Such facts may include languages spoken, population, religions, and popular destinations. Building a collection of the stamps or collectible world coins of various countries is a wonderful way to learn geography and world history.

Consider hanging a map on the wall, and placing a flag on each country once you have the coin. Or create a virtual coin map and “paste” a picture of your coin onto the country it comes from.

3. Quizzes

Take quizzes to help you study and learn geography. Create your own quizzes, prepare for school exams and look online on the internet for further useful study tools like geography workbooks.

2. Tutor

One of the best ways to learn geography is to enlist the help of a mentor or tutor to teach you the basics. Whether you are young or old, a tutor can provide invaluable insight and encouragement.

1. Inspiration

Inspiration is a powerful motivator which can definitely be applied to the process of learning geography. Get inspired to learn by discovering which countries your ancestors originated from or plan a trip to an exciting location.