How to Tell Some Truth with Maps: A Primer on Symbolization and Design

9780892912148

0892912146

This monograph, part of Resource Publications in Geography Series of the Association of American Geographers, is a primer on cartographic symbolization & design for users of computer-based mapping systems or geographic information systems who have not been trained as cartographers. The first chapter presents a conceptual model of the various activities for which maps are used & how design considerations evolve as the purpose of a map changes. The second chapter emphasizes the need to understand the spatial dimensions of the features mapped, the level of measurement of the data, & the graphic primitives used to represent the features. The third chapter discusses the proper classification of data & the correct matching symbols to referents. Chapter four addresses quality concerns in visualization such as inference of a false pattern in a map or the omission of a true pattern & covers methods for representing uncertainty in maps. The last chapter presents guidelines for composing the final map display including its visual & conceptual organization, the necessary marginal information & how to match the map with its present medium. Order from Association of American Geographers, 1710 16th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009-3198; 202/234-1450.