A map symbol or cartographic symbol is a graphical device used to visually represent a real-world feature on a map, … See more

Symbols are used to represent geographic phenomena, which exist in, and are represented by, a variety of spatial forms. Different kinds of symbols are used to portray different spatial forms. Phenomena can be cate… See more

In cartography, the principles of cognition are important since they explain why certain map symbols work. In the past, mapmakers did not care why the symbols worked. This behaviorist view treats the human brain like a black box… See more

A map symbol is created by altering the visual appearance of a feature, whether a point, line, or region; this appearance can be controlled using one or more visual variables. Jacques Bertin, a French cartograph… See more

An important factor in map symbols is the order in which they are ranked according to their relative importance. This is known as intellectual hierarchy. The most important hierarchy is the thematic symbols and type labels that … See more

The legend of the map also contains important information and all of the thematic symbols of the map. Symbols that need no explanations, or do not coincide with the theme of the map, are normally omitted from the m… See more