If you thought building a fire was the easiest skill when it comes to survival, well, you would be wrong.

Many factors can go into the proper construction of a fire, such as the direction of the wind, proximity to tents, how long the fire will last, containing the fire, and of course how to put out the fire quickly.

While it doesn't have to be overly complex to be functional for a super basic fire, having an idea of these factors helps especially during more long-term survival situations where supplies may be limited, there might be a greater need for warmth or any number of other situations.

There are a few basic "fire Shapes", such as a traditional cone-shaped fire arrangement, along with more flattened styles, and even those with walls or rocks for a backdrop.

In each case, the firewood is placed in specific patterns with an end goal in mind.

Cone-shaped wood stacks are not good for placing stuff over them to cook, and fire against a large rock or wall will help to deflect the warmth of the fire in one direction.

Additionally, you have to be careful to clear out the area of unwanted debris, leaves, papers, and anything else that you do not want to burn.

The fuel you use will make a considerable difference to how well your fire burns and how much warmth you receive from it.

Wet wood does not burn well. It will burn, but it will have to dry itself as it goes, causing lots of popping and crackling, which isn't always good.

Green Pine needles, for example, will often produce a lot of smoke as they burn, which can be very useful for signaling if you have access to them.

You can even use larger logs on a slanted slope to allow for the logs to roll into the fire as the fire continues to burn down. This is a great way to have a fire burning for a much longer time frame.

Check Out these examples here:

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BUILDING A CAMPFIRE