> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://terrascout.ai/docs/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Mapping basics > Inspect research layers, records, and individual features on the Ploti map # Use the map after research The map is Ploti's spatial analysis surface. Most work now starts with a research request; open the map when you need to inspect a result geographically, compare layers, or work at the feature level. ## Open a research result From a completed request, open a checkpoint, table, saved query, or map artifact. Ploti carries the result and related research-chat context into the map workspace. ## Navigate and inspect * Pan and zoom to change the visible area. * Search for an address or place when you need to reposition the map. * Select a parcel or feature to inspect its available attributes. * Use the related table when row-by-row comparison is more useful than geography. ## Work with layers The layer controls show workspace datasets and research outputs currently on the map. Use them to: * Toggle visibility * Reorder layers * Change colors and opacity * Review legends and display fields * Focus the map on a result Some datasets appear only where their source has coverage or at an appropriate zoom level. ## Use boundaries when they add precision Draw or select a boundary when you need an exact study area, selection, measurement, or export. Most research can begin with a named geography in the brief; use a shape when its exact geometry matters. ## Open records on the map From a record list or saved view, choose **View on map**. The resulting layer preserves the record context, letting you compare tracked work with the original research and other datasets. ## Continue in chat Use the research chat to ask for a narrower checkpoint, a different ranking, another supporting layer, or an explanation of an unexpected spatial pattern. ## Next steps Review the map controls and outputs. Understand how each artifact opens.