Where is the best place to build a shelter in the wilderness?

If you have to build a shelter in the wild you want to pick an area that is relatively protected from the wind. It would be ideal if the area you settle on has at least a small source of water. You want to build your shelter on a slope above any sign of high water marks. It is best to avoid building a shelter on a ridge. It will be exposed to more wind and present a higher lightning hazard. You want it to be visible, so balance protection from the wind with open exposure, such as building your shelter at the edge of the tree line.