Making geographic maps is an art and a science known as cartography. Geographic maps show your location in connection to other things, from the simple "You Are Here" boards found in shopping centers to the meticulously detailed geologic map of Mars. You might believe that conventional map reading is a talent that is out of date in an era where mapping apps are widely used. An excellent road or topographic map, however, might become your closest buddy if you like outdoor activities like hiking, camping, wilderness exploration, and other sports. Real maps are trustworthy. With paper maps, you can trust that they will bring you where you need to go because there are no signals to lose or batteries to change, unlike with mobile phones and GPS systems.

This guide will introduce you to the basic elements of a map; it will also teach you how to make, read and analyze a map.

In this handbook you'll learn: