The publication of geological maps by the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU) is far too slow to be of any help in the intensive, ore exploration activities which are actually carried out by the SGU and by certain companies in various parts of the country. At the actual rate of mapping, on the scale of 1:50 000, the total coverage of the country is expected to take about 140 years. A more rapid and cheaper method of geological mapping is discussed and its advantages are analysed in relation to ore exploration.