How to read roadbook tulip diagrams
A tulip is a small drawing of a junction or feature. The dot marks the approach; the arrow shows the route out. Read it in the direction you are travelling, rather than treating the top of the page as north.
Start at the dot
Trace the line from the dot towards the junction, then follow it to the arrow. Other branches describe the shape of the junction. They help you recognise it on the ground, but they are not alternative instructions.
Match the distance and the junction
Suppose the row gives a total distance of 2.40 km and shows a right turn at a T-junction. As your tripmeter approaches 2.40 km, look for that T-junction. A right turn at 2.25 km is not enough evidence: both the distance and the shape should agree.
Read ahead, then confirm
Before the junction, identify the exit and any printed hazards. After turning, check the next row and any heading supplied. A tulip describes the local route shape; it does not tell you that the next road is safe to ride at speed.
Check your understanding
The dot is below a T-junction and the arrow leaves to the right. Does this always mean travel east?
Show the answer
No. It means take the right-hand exit relative to the drawn approach. The drawing is not necessarily north-up. Use a supplied CAP heading when you need a compass direction.
These are simplified training examples. For an event, follow its roadbook, briefing and equipment instructions. See the field guide and its sources for the wider navigation context.