Chart lettering not affected by tides and currents is described as which orientation?

• A. Vertical (Not affected)
• B. Slanted (Affected by tides and currents)
• C. Diagonal
• D. Curved

Answer: (A)

The main idea is that lettering on a chart is fixed to the chart’s frame and can be oriented in different ways for readability. When text is vertical, it sits upright relative to the chart itself and remains legible regardless of how tides or currents move water or influence a vessel. Tides and currents don’t alter the printed orientation of the chart, so vertical lettering is described as not affected by those forces.

Slanted, diagonal, or curved lettering is often used to follow features or fit available space, so their orientation is tied to the feature or layout rather than remaining consistently upright with respect to the chart’s frame. This makes them more susceptible to perception changes with rotation or movement, unlike the vertical orientation.