Using R as a GIS

Using R as a GIS shows you how the R programming language can transform your GIS journey, empowering you to create stunning maps, analyse spatial data, and unlock advanced geospatial insights–no prior experience needed!

This book shows you how to use R as a GIS, enabling you to all the spatial analysis you want to, with the reproducibility and benefits of working with a scripting language.

This book is designed for people who are new to R, or even new to scripting and programming. No prior knowledge is needed! Ideally, you will know a little bit of GIS already, and maybe have opened QGIS or ArcGIS. However don’t worry if you haven’t, we will cover the key GIS terminology that you need to know.

Check out more details and buy a copy on the Locate Press website. You can also download the first chapter for free!

Data files for book 138 MB

Reviews

Dr Carmen Cabrera, Lecturer in Geographic Data Science, Department of Geography and Planning, University of Liverpool

  • “Using R as a GIS” is a clear, practical, and highly accessible introduction to spatial analysis using R.
  • Designed with learners in mind, it walks readers with no prior knowledge of GIS or computer scripting from foundational concepts and spatial data types to advanced hands-on mapping, analysis, and visualisation using R programming language. This is achieved through an approachable writing style, which makes complex topics feel less intimidating.
  • The abundant R code examples, the explicit statement of learning outcomes at the beginning of each chapter, and the inclusion of structured exercises make it easy to follow along and apply new skills right away.
  • The book brings R as a GIS to the professional sphere, by placing a strong emphasis on project management and reproducibility. Dedicated chapters on file organisation, version control with Git and GitHub and collaborative work provide practical tools that are not always covered in textbooks and yet, are essential for real-world workflows and collaborative research.
  • Whether you are a student, researcher, or practitioner looking to integrate R into your GIS work, this book is an excellent starting point.

Read Dr Carmen Cabrera’s full review here

Dr Peter Mooney, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science, Maynooth University

  • Using R as a GIS by Dr Nick Bearman is a very timely book providing an accessible introduction to both GIS and R and how readers can develop their skills to use a script-based approach to GIS.
  • The author brings a wealth of experience in the practical application, analysis, and research of GIS coupled with teaching and mentoring experience in R and GIS over many years. This is very evident in the way the book is structured and how the learning outcomes are delivered from start to finish.
  • I found the book easy to read and logically split into five parts. Nick’s writing style is accessible and flows very well while moving at a pace that is very similar to a tutorial style or workshop learning experience. This enhances the book’s potential as a learning tool for a wide variety of learners.
  • Using R as a GIS has the potential to enhance the learning experience of many students by avoiding unnecessary jargon and theory and focusing on a practical outcomes-based style of teaching. Well done Nick on a fine piece of work.

Read Dr Peter Mooney’s full review here

Joseph Kempf, Geospatial Jobs

  • Using R as a GIS by Dr. Nick Bearman is a fantastic introduction to using R for geospatial work.
  • The book is designed covers a wide range of topics, focusing on core GIS concepts and practical tools for working with spatial data.
  • It walks readers through everything from cartography and raster data manipulation to creating interactive maps.
  • It also introduces essential programming skills—like loops and functions—and practical tips for file management, version control with GitHub, and finding spatial data.
  • Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your geospatial skills, this book provides a solid foundation for making the most of R in GIS.

Read the full review on Geospatial Jobs PDF