Concept of Map Reading

The process of examining a given topographical map of an area for the purpose of identifying the geographical information of that area. It has two basic processes:

• Map Reading
• Map Analysis

Map Reading

The process of examining the given topographical map, conventional symbols, and signs.

Map Analysis

The process of relating the identified information on the map with other geographical information that is not directly shown on the map.

1. Topographical maps. Are maps which show physical features which are natural features e.g. mountains, valleys, hills etc and man-made features e.g. bridges, ponds, roads, settlements etc.
2. Statistical maps. Are maps which show the distribution of things in quantitative manner e.g. distribution of rainfall, temperature, crops etc.. Examples of statistical maps are dot maps, choropleth maps, Isocline maps etc.
3. Large-scale maps. Are those maps drawn to large-scale size e.g. 1:10000 these maps gives a larger representation of small area, they are also more detailed (shows a lot of information). They represent areas like cities, towns and villages.
4. Medium scale maps. Are those maps drawn to medium scale size e.g. 1:100000 they show a moderate amount of details. They represent areas like districts, regions and countries.
5. Small scale maps. Are those maps drawn to small scale size e.g. 1:1000000 They give a small presentation of a large area; they show little content (little information) They represent areas like continents and the world.

1. They provide basis for description of geographical phenomenon
2. They are useful for traveling purpose i.e. they guide people to reach their destination
3. Maps are useful for storage of geographical information
4. They are important for field studies
5. They are important for land use planning
6. They are useful for military purposes e.g. during wars.

1. Title gives the name of the country and the area where mapped. It helps the map-reader to know what the map is all about. The heading is usually printed in bold capital used on the map
2. Scale is a ratio between the distance on the map and actual distance on the ground. It is used to find actual distance and areas on the ground. On topographical maps scales are given in form of ratio or lines
3. Key/legend is a feature, which explains the signs and symbols which are used on the map. Definition of terms, which should be added on others, terms under the title "Basic skills of map reading/Essential elements of a map are margins/Bounder
4. Indication of north direction. It gives an idea about the orientation of the map especially in identifying where the north direction is.
5. Margin/Boundary. A frame, which borders the map. This guide and limit the map user in reading and interpreting the map. The aim of the margin is to enclose the area covered by the map
6. Date of compilation. Gives the publisher name and when the map was published. This date is important because physical and human settlements features changes with time but the map drawn representing the land does not.