ABSTRACT
Text is a cartographic incongruity. Lettering and labelling a map can be seen as an untidy, destructive, yet often necessary, additional method of communication. Cartographic labelling is map lettering using attributes of, or data associated with, a given geospatial feature, for example its name or a numerical value. From a technical perspective, lettering and labelling combine to form the rules that govern how an item of text, such as a label, will appear. Existing published maps offer a way of learning which typefaces suit different map types, but it is good practice to test a shortlist of options to see which works best and to check for any undesirable glyphs. Colour can be used as a more subtle variable to size when emphasizing features and creating a visual hierarchy in the map labelling. The placed lettering or labels can be associated to point, line or polygon features, each offering different opportunities for conveying information via the placement of their labels.
