Essentials of map making
Also called: Elements of the cartographic process · Topic: Maps and Map Scale · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 1 "Introduction to Maps"
Meaning
The essentials of map making are the five steps that every map goes through:
- Scale: the first decision. It limits how much detail the map can show.
- Projection: turning the curved earth into a flat surface. Some error in direction, distance, area or shape cannot be avoided.
- Generalisation: choosing data and simplifying it to fit the map's purpose and scale.
- Design: planning the map's look (symbols, colours, lettering, legend).
- Construction and production: drawing and printing the map. This was once done with pen and ink and is now done mostly by computer.
Example
To make a map of Nagpur district, a cartographer first picks a scale. Next they choose a projection and keep only the features needed. Then they design the symbols and legend, and finally print the map.
Don't confuse with
- History of map making: it is not one of the essentials. "History of maps is an essential of map making" is a common false statement in exams.