How do you figure out a distance just by looking?

Question

Is there a method or "tips" to doing it or is it jus estimate and experience?

Answer 1

I assume you are referring to "just looking" at a map.  Look in one of the corners and there should be a scale.  Lay a pencil, ruler, a compass or your finger along side this scale.  Then move the aforementioned along a straight line between the two points in which you are interested and multiply the lengths by the scale.