What is a map legend?
A legend displays the meaning of the symbols, colors and styles used to represent geographic data on the map. Legends consist of examples of the symbols on the map with labels containing explanatory text. Legends have patches that show examples of the map symbols.
What is a map legend Short answer?
A map legend or key is a visual explanation of the symbols used on the map. It typically includes a sample of each symbol (point, line, or area), and a short description of what the symbol means.
What is a map legend definition for kids?
A map key or legend is an essential part of the map. It explains what the symbols on the map mean and allows you to make sense of the map.
Where is the legend on a map?
Legends usually appear near the bottom of a map or around the outer edges, outside of or within the map. If you're placing the legend within the map, set it apart with a distinctive border, and take care not to obscure important areas of the map.
How are maps legends made?
When creating a map, include a clear and legible legend that is positioned in a visible space. Typically, map legends are placed in one of the four corners of the map so that they can be quickly referenced. Draw a box surrounding the legend to clearly separate it from the rest of the map.
Why is a map key called a legend?
A map key is an inset on a map that explains the symbols, provides a scale, and usually identifies the type of map projection used. Technically, the key is part of the map legend. The key explains the symbols, while the legend holds the key and other information.
Why do we have legend in a map?
The map legend contains all the symbols (symbology) used in the map to help the reader understand what the polygons, lines, points, or grid cells represent.
Why are legends important on a map?
A map key or legend is an essential part of the map. It explains what the symbols on the map mean and allows you to make sense of the map. Maps are very valuable tools that can be used to easily show things that would otherwise be difficult to understand.