This article explains how to use Google Maps to plan an alternative route to the default route that Google Maps automatically gives you. These instructions apply to both the desktop and mobile versions of Google Maps.

The first method involves mapping out your own route:

Once you've entered a location and Google has mapped out a route for you, click anywhere on the blue path to set a point.

Drag that point to a new location to change the route. When you do this, other suggested alternative routes will disappear from the map and the driving instructions will change.