The aim of leveling is to determine the relative heights of different objects on or below the surface of the earth and to determine the undulation of the ground surface.
- To prepare a contour map for fixing sites for reservoirs, dams, barrages, etc., and to fix the alignment of roads, railways, irrigation canals, and so on.
- To determine the altitudes of different important points on a hill or to know the reduced levels of different points on or below the surface of the earth.
- To prepare a longitudinal section and cross-sections of a project (roads, railways, irrigation canals, etc) in order to determine the volume of earth work.
- To prepare a layout map for water supply, sanitary or drainage schemes.