Import a Coordinate List with WGS84 coordinates

When importing coordinate lists containing GPS data in WGS84 format (latitude and longitude), you must ensure that the angle unit in Pythagoras matches the file format. This prevents incorrect coordinate positioning during conversion to a local coordinate system.

When working with WGS84 coordinates, make sure the angle unit in Settings > Preferences > Units matches your file format:

• DEC for decimal degrees

• DMS for degrees–minutes–seconds

After confirming your angle unit, you can import the coordinate list and automatically convert it to your selected local Coordinate Reference System (CRS).

STEPS

1. Adjust the settings

Check your coordinate list file

1. Open the coordinate list in a text editor (e.g. Notepad, Notepad++, or Excel).

2. Verify the angle format used in your data:

   • Decimal degrees (example: 51.123456°)

   • Degrees–minutes–seconds (example: 51°07'24.44")

3. Confirm the file structure:

   • Required: POINTNUMBER – LATITUDE – LONGITUDE

   • Optional: Z-value (height)

   • If missing, add a POINTNUMBER column in Excel before saving.
     

In Pythagoras

Match the angle unit 

4. In Pythagoras, go to Settings > Preferences.

5. In the Units tab, set the angle type to match your file:

   • DEC for decimal degrees (example: 51.123456°)

   • DMS for degrees–minutes–seconds (example: 51°07'24.44")

     
     
     
     

Set the Coordinate Reference System (CRS)

6. Go to Settings > Document Settings > Coordinate Reference System.

7. Choose a CRS appropriate for your project area (for example, UTM zone 31N).
   

8. In the Control Panel, change the CS to WGS84.
   

2. Import the data

Then you can import your data.

1. Go to File > Import > Coordinate List.

2. In the import dialog:

   • Select the first option if your file does not contain Z-values.

   • Select the second option if your file does contain Z-values.
     

3. Select your coordinate list file and click Open.

The points will now be imported into Pythagoras. Their WGS84 latitude and longitude values are automatically converted to the defined local CRS.

RESULT

Your WGS84 coordinate list is imported, converted to your chosen local coordinate system, and displayed correctly in the drawing.