Step 4: Building the Map

After the long and rather theoretical map conception phase began the concrete map construction phase. As cartography is almost digital nowadays, you can find further information about digital map construction in the Intermediate Lesson Instruments of digital Cartography.
The following points have to be taken into consideration when you build up the map.

• Positioning of symbols, lines, and typographic elements: In order to facilitate communication, you have to arrange the different map symbols in a correct manner. To acquire knowledge on the structure and presentation of map symbols have a look at the lesson Thematic Data Presentation of the Intermediate Presentation Module. For the positioning of topographic elements read the unit Typographic Design.
• Development and construction of the legend: After deciding on the elements to be mapped in the previous step, you must now organize them into a legend. Some interesting information for the appropriate design of the legend can be found in the unit Readability Rules and in the lesson Thematic Data Presentation of the Intermediate Presentation Module.
• Organize the map elements: For symbols, you have to arrange the map elements into a functional and aesthetic composition. Some good tips about map organization can be found in the unit Definition and organization of the map elements (Internal Link).