Desire lines
What Desire lines means in Geography A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Desire lines
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Desire lines in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Straight lines directly connecting an origin to a destination, illustrating the general direction of movement regardless of the actual physical route taken.
Topics that use Desire lines
- Cartographic skills (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Choropleth maps
- Dot maps
- Geographical relationships
- Isobars
- Isoline maps
- Scale
- Spatial distribution
- Synoptic charts
Using Desire lines in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Geography questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge