In this video we show how shapefiles work, and what you need to look for when you are asked to collect geospatial information. Some additional links, if you are interested to learn more:

• QGIS - an open source program to open and edit shapefiles
• Wikipedia page on shapefiles - general introduction to shapefiles
• Natural Earth - open source shapefiles on many different topics
• Mapshaper - website where you can upload shapefiles and see what they look like, which makes it possible to quickly verify your files without installing any program