Cartography

Map is communication

Four elements in Communication

  • Audience
  • Intent
  • Format
  • Strategy

Types of Maps

Reference Maps

  • General purpose maps
  • Emphasize physical environment

Thematic Maps

  • Maps focusing on a particular topic that is tied to location rather than solely location
    • Example:
      • Choropleth - Quantitative -> Graduated or different colors to show different values
      • Choropleth - Qualitative -> Different colors represent different classifications

Flow Maps

  • Arrows show direction
  • Thickness shows value/amount

Isoline

  • Lines show area of equal value
    • Values labeled directly on the line
    • Lines can be labeled multiple times
  • Used for all types of continuous phenomena: elevation, rainfall, temperature, depth

Cartogram

  • Map area represent the value, not the actual geography/physical size

3D Map Models

  • 3D visualization of values

Content of Maps

Layout and Elements

  • Title
  • Inset map
  • Main map
  • Legend
  • Source note
  • Graphics
  • Orientation indicator (may be not necessary on small-scale maps)
  • Scale indicator (Scale bars should not have odd divisions)