1. A map is defined as: a graphic representation of a portion of the
Earth's surface drawn to scale, as seen from above. It uses colors,
symbols, and labels to represent features found on the ground.
-The ideal representation would be realized if every feature of the
area being mapped could be shown in true shape.
-The purpose of a map is to provide information on the existence,
location, and distance between ground features, such as populated
places and routes of travel and communication. It also indicates
variations in terrain, heights of natural features, and the extent of
vegetation cover.
-All operations conducted require maps; however, the finest maps
available are worthless unless the map user knows how to read
them.
2. Marginal Information: A map is considered equipment. To use it
,properly, you should read the instructions.
These instructions on the outer edges of the map are called marginal
information. All maps are different so examine the marginal
information on each map carefully.
3. Marginal Information (Top Margin 1-6): The top margin of the map helps
you to identify the specific area covered as well as the age and scale of
the map.
4. 1 Sheet Name (Top Margin): The sheet name is found in bold print at
the center of the top and in the lower left area of the map margin. A
map is generally named for the settlement contained within the area
covered by the sheet or for the largest natural feature located within
the area at the time the map was drawn.
5. 2 Sheet Number (Top Margin): The sheet number is bolded in the
upper right and lower left areas of the margin and in the center box of
the adjoining sheets diagram, which is found in the lower right margin.
It is used as a reference number to link specific maps to overlays,
operations orders, and plans.
,For maps at 1:100,000 scale and larger, sheet numbers are based on
an arbitrary system that makes possible the ready orientation of maps
at scales of 1:100,000, 1:50,000, and 1:25,000.
6. 3 Series Name (Top Margin): The map series name is found in the
same bold print as the sheet number in the upper left corner of the
margin.
, The name given to the series is generally that of a major political
subdivision, such as a state within the United States or a European
nation.
A map series usually includes a group of similar maps at the same scale
and on the same sheet lines or format designed to cover a particular
geographic area.
It may also be a group of maps that serve a common purpose, such as
the military city maps.
7. 4 Scale (Top Margin): The scale is found both in the upper left margin
after the series name and in the center of the lower margin.
The scale note is a representative fraction that gives the ratio of a map
distance to the corresponding distance on the Earth's surface.
For example, the scale note 1:50,000 indicates that one unit of measure
on the map equals 50,000 units of the same measure on the ground.
8. 5 Series Number (Top Margin): The series number is found in both the