What are some of the common pitfalls and best practices of using maps in information graphics?

2 Use appropriate colors and symbols

Colors and symbols are essential for making your map readable and attractive, but they can also mislead or confuse your audience if used incorrectly. You should use colors and symbols that match the nature and meaning of your data, such as using sequential, diverging, or categorical color schemes for quantitative, qualitative, or nominal data. You should also avoid using too many colors or symbols, or using colors or symbols that are similar, ambiguous, or culturally insensitive.

3 Provide context and reference

A map without context and reference can be misleading or meaningless. You should provide enough information and cues to help your audience understand where, when, and what your map is showing, such as using labels, legends, titles, scale bars, north arrows, or insets. You should also use consistent and accurate geographic boundaries and projections, and cite your data sources and methods.

4 Highlight the main message

A map should not be overloaded with data or details that distract from the main message. You should use techniques such as filtering, aggregation, classification, or annotation to highlight the most important or relevant aspects of your data and story. You should also use contrast, emphasis, or hierarchy to draw attention to the key features or patterns on your map.

5 Balance aesthetics and accuracy

A map should be both beautiful and truthful, but sometimes there is a trade-off between aesthetics and accuracy. You should strive to balance the visual appeal and the factual representation of your map, and avoid sacrificing one for the other. You should also be aware of the potential biases and errors that may arise from your data, design, or interpretation choices, and communicate them clearly and honestly to your audience.

6 Test and evaluate your map

A map is not finished until you test and evaluate its effectiveness and impact. You should review your map for clarity, accuracy, consistency, and completeness, and check for any errors or flaws that may affect its quality or credibility. You should also solicit feedback from your intended audience or peers, and measure how well your map conveys your data and message, and how it influences their understanding or behavior.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?