ABSTRACT
This chapter presents mapping standards and techniques for many common geographic information system (GIS) features. These feature discussions are also a springboard for mapping techniques that can be used for GIS features that aren’t listed here, since many of the techniques are widely applicable. Please note that these are all just suggestions, and you must take the responsibility for applying them appropriately to your map, given that it has its own unique purpose, data, and circumstances. For example, in the “Bodies of Water” section, the color palette shows eight shades of blue as suggestions for water feature colors. While blue is a standard color choice for these features, you might want to make an exception for a particular map. Perhaps you feel that light gray would be good for the lakes on your map because you are required to use shades of blue for a different feature. In this case, bucking convention allows the lakes to be differentiated from the other feature type, a good reason for changing things up. Some of the ideas in this chapter encourage creative solutions by giving examples of some innovative ideas. But do not let those limit your creativity. Come up with your own original solutions too. By learning the conventions, you should become confident in determining where there is some room for creativity and where you want to stick with the traditional methods.
