Fundamentals of Mapping

Types of Maps – Introduction

There are many different types of maps, which are generally classified according to what they are attempting to show.

We have classified maps into five common types:

General Reference (sometimes called planimetric maps)
read more →
Thematic
read more →
Topographic Maps
read more →
Navigation Charts
read more →
Cadastral Maps and Plans
read more →

It must be noted that this a simplistic classification of the types of maps – indeed there are often overlapping features of maps. For example a topographic map may be used to map the distribution of a native orchid (therefore it is both a topographic and thematic map) or may be used to show features of particular interest to tourist (topographic and general reference).

All of these map types may be a unique stand-alone map with no relationship to other maps or they may be part of a series of related maps, these are generally called Series Maps. Read more about Series Maps →

Map Specification

All of the above maps have one thing in common – they have a set of rules which determine how they are made and what they show. This is called a Specification. Read more about Specification →

For a single, stand-alone map (such as a map of a tourist resort) this may be very simple. At the other extreme, for series maps the specification is likely to be very complex because it is important that all maps in the series have similar content, as-wee-as a consistent 'look and feel'.

The specification should also contain information on assumptions, limitations and information sources. This is known as 'metadata' and is an important aid to the map reader. Read more about Metadata →