Creating Map Layouts

Lesson 7 of 8 · GIS Software Fundamentals · Beginner

A map layout is a composed page that combines your map with supporting elements — title, legend, scale bar, north arrow, and source information — to produce a complete, shareable output. A well-designed layout communicates clearly; a poorly designed one can mislead or confuse.

The Map Layout vs. the Map Canvas

The map canvas is your working view — where you load, style, and analyse data. A map layout is a separate composition area where you arrange the map alongside other elements for output. Changes to the layout do not affect your data or project settings.

Most GIS software has a dedicated layout or print composer view. You add a map frame that shows a snapshot of your canvas at a chosen extent and scale.

Essential Layout Elements

Title

Every map needs a clear, descriptive title. The title should tell the reader what the map shows. Avoid vague titles like "Map 1." A good title might be "Public Libraries and Parks in Riverton, 2024."

Legend

The legend explains the symbols used on the map. Include only the layers that are visible and meaningful in the output. Remove auto-generated legend entries for layers that are not shown or that are self-explanatory.

Scale Bar

A scale bar shows the relationship between map distance and real-world distance. It is meaningful only when the map is printed or displayed at a consistent size and when the projection preserves distance reasonably well in the area shown. For small-scale maps covering large areas, a scale bar may be misleading.

North Arrow

A north arrow indicates map orientation. It is most useful when the map is not oriented with north at the top, or when the audience may not be familiar with the area. For many conventional maps of well-known areas, a north arrow is optional.

Source and Date

Every map should credit its data sources and include the date the map was produced or the data was current. This supports trust and allows readers to evaluate the information. Example: "Sources: City of Riverton Open Data, 2024. Map produced: January 2025."

Projection Information

For technical or analytical maps, noting the coordinate reference system used can be important for readers who need to reproduce or extend the work.

Visual Hierarchy and Readability

The map itself should be the dominant visual element. Supporting elements — legend, scale bar, title — should be clearly readable but should not compete with the map for attention. Use consistent fonts, adequate margins, and sufficient whitespace. Avoid decorative elements that add visual noise without adding information.

Print vs. Digital Output

Maps intended for print need higher resolution and may need to account for colour differences between screen and print. Maps intended for digital sharing can use screen resolution but should still be legible at the intended display size. Check your output after export — what looks good on screen may not look good when printed.

Accessibility

Ensure sufficient colour contrast for text and symbols. Avoid conveying information only through colour. Use readable font sizes — text that is legible on screen may be too small when printed at a smaller size.

Common Mistakes

• Including a legend entry for every layer, including background layers that need no explanation.
• Using a scale bar on a map where the projection distorts distance significantly.
• Omitting source and date information.
• Choosing a map extent that cuts off important context or misleads about the study area.
• Using font sizes that are too small to read when the map is printed.

Key Takeaways

• A map layout composes the map with title, legend, scale, north arrow, and source information.
• Not every map requires every traditional element — include what is useful.
• Source and date information support trust and reproducibility.
• The map should be the dominant visual element; supporting elements should not compete.
• Check the output after export — screen appearance and print appearance can differ.