Cartographers use map legends to detail what various symbols and colors represent on a map. The legend essentially acts a key to the map. To adequately understand a map, readers must use the map legend to determine elements such as scale, topography, climate, roads and boundaries.

Visibility, Legibility and Symbols

When creating a map, include a clear and legible legend that is positioned in a visible space. Typically, map legends are placed in one of the four corners of the map so that they can be quickly referenced. Draw a box surrounding the legend to clearly separate it from the rest of the map. Identify all of the symbols used throughout your map. If you have a created a map of the United States and its capitals, use your legend to signify that a star represents the capital of each state. Use circles to represent cities in the United States and small triangles to represent mountains. If you are color coding different climate zones, explain how each color coordinates to the climate in your legend.

Drawing a Scale

Many maps are drawn to scale, so provide a map scale in your legend to show the ratio of the distance on your map to the actual distance. If 1 inch on your map represents 100 miles, represent that ratio. A line drawn in your map legend with the ratio measured out and identified is a suitable scale. Doing so will enable readers to more effectively interpret and follow your map.

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