Work out traverse closure error instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
A closed traverse should return to its starting point, so the algebraic sums of latitudes and departures should both be zero. Their resultant is the linear closure error, and dividing the perimeter by it gives the precision ratio surveyors quote, such as one in five thousand. The bearing of the error often points to which leg contains the mistake.
Closure error
e = sqrt((sum of latitudes)² + (sum of departures)²)
Precision
Precision = traverse perimeter / closure error, expressed as 1 in N
e = sqrt((sum of latitudes)² + (sum of departures)²). A closed traverse should return to its starting point, so the algebraic sums of latitudes and departures should both be zero.
One in five thousand for ordinary cadastral work and one in ten thousand or better for control traverses. A closure much worse than expected usually means a single gross error rather than accumulated small ones.
This calculator takes 4 inputs: Algebraic sum of latitudes, Algebraic sum of departures, Total traverse length, Allowable precision denominator. The pre-filled defaults are a realistic worked example — replace them with your own site or project figures.