Types of Cartography?

There are many different types of cartography, each with its unique features and
applications. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types of
cartography:

#1. General Reference Maps

General reference maps are maps that provide general information about an area,
such as the location of cities, towns, rivers, and mountains. They are usually
designed for general use and are not specific to any particular purpose. General
reference maps are commonly used in schools, libraries, and tourist information
centers.

General reference maps can be further classified into different types, such as
political maps, physical maps, and road maps. Political maps show the
boundaries of countries, states, and provinces, and the location of their capital cities.
Physical maps show the physical features of an area, such as mountains, rivers, and
lakes. Road maps show the road network of an area, including highways, streets,
and roads.

#2. Topographic Maps

Topographic maps are maps that show the surface features of an area in detail.
They are designed to show the elevation, relief, and contours of an area.
Topographic maps are used for various purposes, such as hiking, mountain biking,
and mountaineering. They are also used by geologists, environmental scientists, and
urban planners.

Topographic maps are usually created using aerial photographs, satellite images,
and ground surveys. They show the elevation of an area using contour lines, which
are lines that connect points of equal elevation. The closer the contour lines, the
steeper the slope. Topographic maps also show other features, such as rivers, lakes,
and forests.

READ MORE: How Do You Read A Topographic Map

#3. Thematic Maps

Thematic maps are maps that show specific information about an area, such as
population density, climate, or land use. They are designed to communicate a
particular theme or topic. Thematic maps are used by researchers, policymakers,
and planners to analyze and understand spatial patterns.

Thematic maps can be further classified into different types, such as

choropleth maps, dot density maps, and isopleth maps. Choropleth maps use
color to represent different values of a particular variable, such as population density
or income. Dot density maps use dots to represent the number of occurrences of a
particular phenomenon, such as crimes or accidents. Isopleth maps use contour
lines to represent values of a particular variable, such as temperature or rainfall.

#4. Navigation Charts

Navigation charts are maps that are used for navigation purposes, such as sailing,
boating, and aviation. They provide information about water depths, tides, currents,
and hazards. Navigation charts are used by mariners, pilots, and other navigators to
plan their routes and avoid dangers.

Navigation charts can be further classified into different types, such as

nautical charts, aeronautical charts, and topographic charts. Nautical charts
show the water depths, coastline, and underwater hazards of an area. Aeronautical
charts show the airspaces, airports, and navigation aids of an area. Topographic
charts show the elevation, relief, and contours of an area for aviation purposes.

#5. Cadastral Maps and Plans

Cadastral maps and plans are maps that show the ownership and boundaries of land
parcels. They are used for various purposes, such as land use planning, property
taxation, and land development. Cadastral maps and plans are created by
government agencies and are used by surveyors, engineers, and property owners.

Cadastral maps and plans are usually created using field surveys, legal
records, and aerial photographs. They show the boundaries of land parcels, the
location of buildings and other features, and the ownership information. Cadastral
maps and plans also show the dimensions and areas of land parcels, which are
important for property valuation and taxation.