Preparing data

So far, you have learned how to download data directly from Open Street Map and begin asking data questions. When you prefer to work with a smaller dataset, instead of downloading larger files directly to your computer, you can also create datasets directly from the map canvas and write SQL queries entirely in QGIS.

QGIS has a training dataset but it is not too complicated to substitute the default set with something of more interest. We can select a region of interest from the canvas and explore different layers by using a QGIS plugin known as QuickOSM.

There is also a plugin for uploading data into the QGIS canvas for exploring our region of interest.

Creating a dataset using the Open Street Map plugin

Here is how to install the QuickOSM plugin:

1. To install the QuickOSM plugin, navigate to the menu at the top of the canvas and search for QuickOSM in the pane, as shown in Figure 5.1. As you can see, I already have the plugin installed; you will notice...