Lab 2 – Map Elements and Topography
This week in lab, we focused on learning how to properly label features on a map. We concentrated on placing labels for point and line features, choosing appropriate font styles and sizes, and fixing labels that were not positioned correctly.
Using ArcGIS Pro, I used the Select by Attributes tool to extract the needed data from a larger dataset, which helped keep the map clean and well-organized. I applied label tools to create text labels with the correct font, ensuring waterbody names were italicized as required. I also used the Label Properties tool to adjust label positioning and add halos for better contrast.
When I needed to adjust a single label without affecting others, I used the Convert to Annotation tool. This allowed me to manually reposition and edit individual labels without changing the rest. three main customizations to my map:
Color Scheme: I selected a distinct color scheme to emphasize the important features. I chose light gray for Floridia and added a faint black outline to the counties to serve as a neutral background. For contrast, I made the rivers a vibrant blue and a red point for the cities to make them stand out. I even gave Tallahassee a large yellow star to make it different from the other cites because it is the capital.
Extract Key Features: I decided to extract the required features out of each data set to eliminate “map crap.” This made the map look less cluttered and removed any irrelevant information, helping to emphasis on the main features.
Label Placement and Balance: I carefully arranged the labels to create a smooth visual flow and ensured that everything was well spaced. I placed my scale bar and north arrow in the bottom-right corner and my name and data source in the bottom-left corner to balance the layout. The title got placed at the top so the reader could quickly understand what they were
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