- DTP Success Team
DSST Introduction to Geography Exam Outline
Updated: Mar 16
The DSST Introduction to Geography exam covers critical topics such as physical geography, human geography, and geographical tools and concepts.
With some preparation, you can ace this test and demonstrate mastery of the material.
This blog post will outline the key topics covered in the DSST Introduction to Geography exam and provide helpful study resources.
Let's get started!
Table of Contents
1. The Earth, Basic Facts and Concepts

Seasons: June Solstice, September Equinox, December Solstice, March Equinox.
Maps and cartography: Maps are graphic representations of all or part of the earth’s surface drawn to scale.
Coordinate systems: Latitude and Longitude layout of the earth’s coordinates.
Physiography: Tectonics, gradation and landforms, and hills.
Atmosphere: The weather and climate.
Soils and vegetation: For plants to survive, soils must contain nutrients and specific moisture conditions.
Water: The geography of water affects the environment and ecosystem.
DSST Introduction to Geography Trivia Question #138
2. Culture and Environment

Cultural systems and processes: Domestication of plants and animals, cultural origins and dispersals.
Population: Characteristics and patterns, growth, and resource use.
Natural resources: Rapid population growth has altered the earth’s surface and oceans at an accelerated rate.
3. Spatial Processes

Social processes: Human spatial behavior: Also known as “human decision-making.”
Modern economic systems: Agriculture and extractive activities, manufacturing, retailing, service, and high technology.
Settlement patterns: Settlement patterns are thought of in terms of the area’s site and situation.
Political Geography: Territories, boundaries, politics, and locations.
Social problems: The United States has serious social issues that must be dealt with to maintain its position of power and prestige.
DSST Introduction to Geography Trivia Question #879
4. Regional Geography

Defining a region: part of the earth’s surface with one or many similar characteristics that make it unique from other areas.
Geopolitical regions: Political geography covers all aspects of boundaries, country, state, and national development, international organizations, diplomacy, internal divisions, and voting.
Globalization: The world is integrated internationally through exchanging ideas, products, and cultures.
5. Conclusion
We hope you’ve found this introduction to the DSST Introduction to Geography Exam outline helpful.
If you want more information on these topics or are looking for a study guide to help you ace the exam, our course library is just what you need.
With over 1,000 practice questions available, we have everything you need to prepare for test day.
So what are you waiting for? Start studying today and get one step closer to your college degree!
6. Student Resources
7. References
DSST Introduction to Geography Fact Sheet