I just wanted ask you experienced drivers what your procedures are for your trip planning? Do you use your rand mcnally atlas more or are you using computer programs or both?

I use my laptop now, however when I first started out I used the map. I believe it is important to know how to do it manually before using a computer. If for some reason your computer craps out and you dont know how to do it manually, your screwed.

I use both. The laptop helps to give you a quick route. I then take that route and follow it on my truck atlas with my finger. After a while you'll get to know what roads you like and don't like and you adjust it accordingly. Take your final plan and write it road by road onto a piece of sticky paper (like a long "post-it" type pad). Stick it on the dash and get rollin'. Each time I stop for a break I go over the plan again using the paper and my map. Soon it sticks in your head and you'll need to look at the paper less and less. I've also caught mistakes I've made on the paper by reviewing it each time I stopped.
Now I hardly ever need the laptop and only use the map if I'm going to a state I've never been to before or if I'm unsure as to where I'm going.
It all gets MUCH easier over time.
BOL

When I first started I used my atlas. Now I use both. Using my computer makes city directions alot easier for me. I can get a better idea of where I am going.

True, my laptop is invaluable when it comes to local, street level directions. Just be careful as most software is meant for cars, not trucks. Folowing the laptop blindly may get you into a no-truck zone or worse, stuck under a low bridge!

I used an atlas for about 6 months, Now I use my atlas for low clearences and stuff like that, And a combination of streets and trips and my GPS I have the tom tom one and I love it. There are times thou you need to go the alternate rts and things so you need to pay attention but it automatically reroutes you.

I use my atlas if I need it but I usually know where i`m going.

I usually know where I am and where I'm going, it's the between that stumps me.

Thanks guys I appreciate all your help!!!!

The one thing that I have found the laptop invaluable for is finding the shortest route. Many times the shortest route is not readily discernable using the atlas.