Cartographic generalization

Cartographic generalization selects, simplifies, and represents geographic information to make a map clear at a chosen scale and for a specific purpose.

Feature selection: The process of choosing which geographic features to include in a map. Selection decides which places and objects remain visible at the target scale.
Map projection: A mathematical transformation that represents locations on Earth's curved surface on a plane. Projection distortion changes the shapes and distances that generalization must preserve or manage.
Topographic map: A map that represents terrain and selected natural and human-made features. Topographic maps generalize relief, settlements, roads, and water features across scale series.
Cartographic precision: The degree to which mapped positions and measurements correspond accurately to geographic reality. Generalization may sacrifice positional or geometric precision to improve clarity at small scales.
Line simplification: The reduction of vertices in a line while retaining its overall shape or important characteristics. It reduces the detail in roads, rivers, and boundaries without losing their recognizable form.
Thematic map: A map designed to show the spatial distribution of a particular subject or variable. The map's subject guides which geographic details support its message and which distract from it.
Road map: A map designed to show roads and related information for route planning or navigation. Road networks are simplified and emphasized to remain useful at different scales.
Geometric simplification: The reduction of geometric complexity without necessarily considering a map's purpose or visual legibility. It is one operation within generalization, not the full process of adapting a map to its purpose.
Typification: The replacement of many similar features with fewer symbols that preserve their overall distribution and character. Dense groups of buildings or trees can be represented by a smaller, representative set.
Map symbol: A graphic mark used to represent a geographic feature or attribute on a map. Symbol size and shape constrain how closely features can be placed without becoming indistinguishable.

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