Designing Better Maps

Learn from the best with this popular book on creating successful maps with any GIS or illustration product, written by an expert cartographer.

For more than 18 years, Designing Better Maps: A Guide for GIS Users has been essential reading for all mapmakers who use geographic information systems (GIS) across industries and sectors, including government, commercial, creative, and academic. This third edition continues the reliable legacy of this book, distinctive in its clear and efficient emphasis on core cartographic concepts and updated with new and revamped design practices.

With more than 400 full-color illustrations, this book applies map design best practices to both reference and statistical mapping, guiding you through the following processes:

Planning mapsUsing basemapsUsing scale and timeExplaining mapsPublishing and sharing mapsApplying type and labelsUnderstanding and using colorCustomizing symbols.Award-winning author Cynthia A. Brewer uses her sophisticated mix of experiences--conducting academic research, teaching novice cartographers, mentoring research and mapmaking by advanced students, and collaborating with analysts and mapmakers at various federal agencies--to present this practical information. In 2023, she was awarded the International Cartographic Society's highest honor, the Carl Mannerfelt Gold Medal, for distinguished contributions to her field.

Whether you face the challenge of making well-designed maps or are already adept at GIS data management and analysis but need better ways to visually communicate spatial information and results, Designing Better Maps to learn how to use GIS tools to design provocative and accessible maps.