On the basis of forms or shapes of the settlements, rural settlements are classified as Linear, Rectangular, Circular, Star like, T-shaped village, Y-shaped village, Compact, Disperse, Planned, etc. The settlement in which houses are constructed along a road, railway line, river, canal edge of a valley, or along a levee is known as Linear Pattern.
T he settlements constructed in a rectangular shape are known as Rectangular Pattern. Such kind of settlements is found in plain areas and in wide inter-montane valley.
T he settlements constructed in a circular shape are known as Circular Pattern. Such kind of settlement is found around lakes, tanks, or a planned village. T he settlements constructed in a star shape are known as Star like Pattern. Such kind of settlement is found around the points where several roads cross each other (making star shape).
T he settlements in which houses are constructed at the tri-junctions of the roads are known as T-shaped Pattern. Such kind of settlement is found along the road, which meets with another road at the dead end (the straight going road ends) and bifurcates left and right (T-Shape). T he settlement, in which houses are constructed along the straight road, is known as Y-Shape pattern. It is further bifurcated into two roads (similar to Y shape),