Lab 2: Cartography

     This week in lab, we learned how to make a map using University of West Florida's main campus location. First, we used ArcPro to manipulate our data, add it to the map frame, and symbolize it. Then, we made a map layout using an inset map of the whole state of Florida and another layout using the  Escambia County, where UWF is located. The purpose of this allows the viewer to understand where the information is located. Finally, we added essential map elements to complete our final map. This included the title, legend, north arrow, scale, border, date, data source, and cartographer name. These things are essential in good map making because they are all aids to help the viewer understand the map. 

    While creating the map, I really tried to make it visually appealing. I chose green and gray because they complement each other nicely and the gray made a nice background for all the other elements. Then, I chose to make UWF's campus a big yellow start because it needed to be the focus point. I made the symbology of the rest of the features how they would look in real life with the rivers blue and the interstates a dark gray. Next, the title went across the top of the map because it was ascetically pleasing and straight to the point. I also left my intent map in right corner because it was out of the way but still necessary. After that, I put the legend in the bottom right corner because there was more room for it to be bigger for the viewer to read it better. In the bottom left corner, I put my name, the date, and the data source topped off by the north arrow. This was to keep all the information about who created the map, when it was created, and what data source was used all together and easy for the viewer to find. Lastly, I put the scale bar in the center of the bottom and made it 10 miles long because it was a good solid number that the viewer would be able to use. In conclusion, I think this lab was great starter point on teaching us how to make a map visually appealing and still get the overall message to the viewer.