SLC S22W1 / Digital Cartography Basics

While watching some pirate movies, I do wonder how they read maps about oceans and islands effectively. Then, I understood that Cartography wasn't left behind as it's their beacon stone of knowledge. The manners of their interpretation of maps is what I'll learn before the end of the course. In the meanwhile, permit me to show you the map of my country.

As the contest guidelines requirement, I was asked to draw a freehand drawing of the map of my Country. Above is the free sketch which I indicate is the capital of my country and my state of residence. The capital as listed there is FCT (Federal Capital Territory) and it happens to be located at the center of the map. My state of residence is Akwa Ibom State which is my state of origin. Isn't it interesting?

Since I am really conversant with where each state is located, I do recall the system of geopolitical zones. In Nigeria, We have majorly six geopolitical zones which I listed in the map above. I also made sure that a legend is created to make sure that everything is understandable.

There are different places or states in my country which I haven't visited but will love to be there. Here are a few of them

• Lagos State: This is one of the most popular states in Nigeria known for its industrialized and commercialized economy. I'd love to be there someday.
• Ibadan: It's a city in Nigeria known for its nativity and agricultural heritage.
• Benin City: It's known for its rich culture and traditions in terms of bronze history and other aspects. It's truly a paradise to visit.

A map is a pictorial or graphical representation of a place on a piece of paper. Imagine a situation whereby a person is new to a place, a map can help such a person to know his whereabouts.

Different elements are needed in a map so that a first timer or an experienced user can understand a given map. Here are some elements worthy of note.

• Title: This is very essential in creating a map because it tells more about the location of a place. Imagine giving a person an unfamiliar map to read and trace the place. The person will be more than confused because of the missing title.
• Scale: This is very useful because it determines the actual distance of the place in respect to the distance of the map. With this, map readers or cartographer can read any map accurately.
• Legend: This elements is essential because it gives meaning to the conventional sign slated on the given map.

Cartography is very important because it gives clearer understanding about map reading. As I said earlier concerning the pirates example, Cartography wasn't left behind as it's form their beacon stone to their knowledge.