Practical guide
Read a terrain plan and section together
A terrain section is most useful when you know where the cut sits in plan and can relate its profile back to the site model.
Locate the section in plan
Start with the section line and its viewing direction. Identify what the cut passes through and which parts of the surrounding site fall outside that view.
Read relative changes in level
Follow the terrain profile across the cut. Note rises, falls and changes in steepness. Before comparing heights numerically, check the displayed units, datum and whether the drawing uses different horizontal and vertical scales.
Compare all three views
Use the plan for location, the section for a specific profile and the 3D model for the wider landform. One section alone cannot describe the whole site or establish buildability.
Carry uncertainty into the design discussion
Online terrain can support early comparison, but critical levels and construction information still need professional verification.