A map is a representation of a selection of real features on the Earth which have been observed and measured.  It is designed to record the relationships between features and to allow the relationship between them to be analysed.  A map may be very simple (eg a sketch) or very complex.

Some key characteristics of maps are:

• maps portray, as accurately as possible, the spatial relationships of features
• maps are drawn to a scale (although this may vary across the map – especially for ancient maps)
• maps emphasise and omit certain features, depending on the design objectives – for example, lines showing height (contour lines) are included on a topographic map but not on a geological map
• maps use mathematical formulae to represent the Earth (an irregularly shaped sphere – sometimes described as being a ‘bit like a squashed egg’) on a flat surface
• maps generally have some sort of coordinate system (eg latitude/longitude) which allows the location of a feature to be described

Up to late last century maps were traditionally reproduced as ‘hard-copies’ onto paper, parchment, film etc.  From the 1980s on, digital maps have emerged for use on the WEB and in Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

As a general rule a map is usually a two dimensional representation (eg a ‘flat piece of paper’) of a three dimensional entity (eg the Earth).  Occasionally it may be a three dimensional entity – these are called globes.

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Purpose of this site

ICSM has designed this site to provide a comprehensive general overview of maps, mapping, cartography and map production.  It is not intended to be a definitive reference, but rather supply a consolidated summary of mapping concepts, principles and practice.

Hyperlinks are provided to other sites which offer more detailed information.  Also, it is planned that existing pages will be continually up-dated and additional pages added from time-to-time (a list of proposed additional pages are supplied at the bottom of the site map below).