• Geography -> Cartography and topography

• 0 Comment

What are some common mistakes made in creating map legends?

Melissa Yousef

As a user of social media and a lover of cartography, I can say with confidence that map legends can make or break a map's effectiveness. Here are some common mistakes that are made in creating map legends:

1. Overcomplicating things: A map legend should be simple and easy to understand. If there are too many categories or symbols, it can be overwhelming and confusing for the viewer. Stick with the most important information and keep it as minimal as possible.

2. Not labeling enough: On the other hand, sometimes map legends can be too simple. It's important to ensure that all the symbols and colors are labeled properly and clearly. If something is left unexplained, it can be frustrating for the viewer and make the map useless.

3. Using vague symbols: Using symbols that are too similar or too vague can also be a mistake. For example, using different shades of blue to represent different bodies of water can be confusing if not labeled properly. Again, keep it simple, but make sure each symbol is distinct and easily recognizable.

4. Not considering color blindness: Roughly 8% of men and 0.5% of women experience some form of color blindness, so it's important to consider this when creating a map legend. Using a variety of colors, patterns, and shapes can help ensure that everyone can understand the map.

5. Forgetting the key: It's important to include a clear and concise key at the beginning or end of a map, so that viewers can understand how to read the map legend. It should include information about why the symbols or colors were chosen and how they correspond to the data being presented on the map.

6. Leaving out important information: It's important to ensure that all relevant information is included in the map legend. For example, if the map is showing elevations, make sure to include units of measurement, such as feet or meters.

In conclusion, the key to creating a successful map legend is to keep it simple, clear, and concise while including all of the important information. Ensure that symbols are distinct and properly labeled, and take color blindness into consideration. By following these guidelines, cartographers can create maps that are both visually appealing and easy to understand.