GPS for Dummies.pdf - Engineering Surveyor

22Part I: All About Digital MapsMost maps have elements in common. Here aresome, along with the terms that cartographers(mapmakers) use to describe them:Citation: This is information about data sourcesused in making the map and when the map wasmade.Collar: This is the white space that surroundsthe neatline (see the upcoming definition) andthe mapped area.Compass rose: A map has either a simple arrowthat shows north or a full compass rose (an imagethat indicates all four directions) so the user cancorrectly orient the map to a compass.Coordinates: Maps usually have either lettersand numbers or coordinates (such as latitudeAnatomy of a mapand longitude values) marked along the bordersso users can locate positions on the map.Legend: This is a box that shows an explanationof symbols used on the map. Some maps show allthe symbols; others rely on a separate symbolguide.Mapped area: This is the main part of the map,displaying the geographic area.Neatline: This is the line that surrounds themapped area.Scale: This distance-equivalence information(such as “one inch = one mile”) helps you estimatedistances on a map and is typically found atthe bottom.Title: This is usually the name of the map, but italso tells you which area it’s mapping.Begin by looking at the basic types of maps that you can use to navigate andbetter understand your surroundings. (Although there are maps for travelingunder the ocean, visiting the moon, or zooming around in space, it’s unlikelythat you’ll need these anytime soon.)An important point to consider is that no one universal map type does it all.Different map types display the different features and details that are suitedfor a particular use — or user. A skilled map user always selects a map thatmeets his or her specific needs.Maps are almost always oriented so the top of the map is facing north. If amap doesn’t follow this convention, a good mapmaker places an arrow on themap that points north.LandBecause we spend most of our time with our feet or tires on the ground, landmaps are pretty important to know how to use. In general, the two types ofland maps are topographic and planimetric.