How are townships divided into sections?

Townships are divided into sections in a serpentine fashion starting from the northeast corner. This method begins at the northeastern section of the township and moves horizontally in a zigzag pattern across the township, covering all the sections systematically. Each township is typically 6 miles square and consists of 36 sections, each one square mile in size.

The serpentine method ensures that all sections are sequentially accounted for while also accommodating the surveying techniques used in the United States, particularly under the Public Land Survey System (PLSS). This system was designed to facilitate land division and ownership, promoting easier identification and navigation.

While other methods mentioned in the alternatives might seem plausible at first glance, they do not align with the actual framework used for dividing townships into sections. The correct understanding of the division of townships into sections is fundamental for effective land management, mapping, and various planning purposes.