Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Simple Maps

Making simple maps from real places can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes you should steer clear of:

1. Wrong Scale

   • It's really important to get the scale of your map right. A common mistake is using a scale that doesn’t fit the size of the area you’re mapping. For example, if you use a scale of 1:100,000 for a small neighborhood, the details might get all mixed up.

2. Too Much Information

   • Putting too many things on the map can make it look messy. Research shows that when maps have too many details, people can miss the important stuff. It’s better to only show the essential things like roads, landmarks, and natural features.

3. Confusing Symbols

   • If you use different symbols that don’t match, it can confuse people reading your map. For example, if you show a park with a tree icon and use a different symbol for a playground, people might get mixed up. Always include a legend, which is a key explaining what each symbol means.

4. No North Arrow

   • Forgetting to add a North arrow is a common mistake. Without it, people might find it hard to know which way they are looking at the map. Always make sure it's clear, especially in new areas.

5. Not Understanding Your Audience

   • Knowing who will use your map is super important. A map for tourists should have different information than one made for local people. Studies say that about 65% of map users want directions, while 25% look for cultural or historical info.

By avoiding these mistakes, anyone can create helpful and easy-to-read simple maps that make understanding geography a lot better!