Final answer:
Shaded relief maps are most directly helpful in identifying the shape of features of the Earth. These maps add a third dimension to an otherwise two-dimensional map, allowing the map reader to visualize the elevation and contours of the Earth's surface.
Step-by-step explanation:
Shaded relief maps are most directly helpful in identifying the shape of features of the Earth. These maps add a third dimension to an otherwise two-dimensional map, allowing the map reader to visualize the elevation and contours of the Earth's surface. By representing the shape of the land, shaded relief maps can assist in various activities such as purchasing property, planning trips, or surveying for construction purposes.