Time Zones Map

You have probably needed to calculate the time in a different part of the world at some point in your life. Usually, time zone maps are used for this purpose. However, if you are unfamiliar with time zones and their mechanics, it is a daunting task to make sense of all the lines and numbers. However, take heart; at the end of this article, you are never going to have to use an online time calculator again!

What exactly is a time zone?

Starting from the very beginning, a time zone is simply a region of the world that has agreed to adjust its time-keeping devices to comply with UTC (Universal Time, Coordinated). This generally requires little adjustment on the part of the individual time zones. The delineation of the time zones themselves is slightly tricky, as you can observe from merely looking at the lines on a time zone map. However, converting local time to a time in a different part of the world is a simple matter once you know what time zone you need.

Understanding UTC

So, now you know where you are trying to find the time. From here it is a simple matter to determine the local time in that area. Across the top of the time zone map, you see a series of labels reading "UTC" followed by + or - and then a number. This is where the acronym "Universal Time, Coordinated" comes into play. All times zones are compared to "UTC (0)." This is standard time, or "Greenwich time." The integer next to "UTC" in any given time zone expresses local time as a function of Greenwich time, plus or minus some number of hours. For example, if you live in Oregon, you find yourself in the time zone "UTC - 8," that is, eight hours earlier than Greenwich time.

Calculating local time

Now that you have a handle on what UTC is and how it works, you can finally find the time of your target area. For an example, you can use California (UTC - 8) as local time and Germany (UTC + 2) as target time. First, find the difference between the two integers following "UTC." In this case, you have (-8) - 2 = -10. This number is your true time-offset. In order to transform your local time into the local time of the target region, simply add the opposite value to your local time. In this case, in order to account for lagging 10 hours behind German time, you have to add 10 hours to your local time. You now have the local time of the target region. That is all you have to do!

Once you get the hang of reading time zone maps, it becomes extremely easy and enjoyable. Not having to rely on the internet to tell you the answer is a great relief, and reading time zone maps is a skill that you can show off to your friends.

All times zones are compared to UTC

by Garrett Martin, Electronics writer