Map Components
The list of different map types in the introduction (topographic, thematic, atlas,
scientific, special purpose), emphasises the differences between them, but they
have many similarities.
Three components, common to all maps can be defined:
- they use graphical symbols to give positional information. The graphical
symbols are often considered by beginners to be confusing, but they are far
less complex than the graphical symbols used to convey written information;
- they have keys to explain the symbols that are used; and
- they include auxiliary information such as the scale
What other auxillary information is necessary or desirable on a map?
(Check your answer with the list provided from a NSW topographic map, by clicking on the hat).
Auxillary information taken from Penrith topographic map 1:25,000.
