Module 6 - Isarithmic Mapping

This week's lab session will focus on isarithmic mapping. An isarithmic map is a specialized thematic map that employs color to depict smooth and continuous phenomena, such as elevation, temperature, or precipitation. Among the various types of maps, contour lines are particularly prevalent; they connect points of equal value to illustrate continuous elevation data.

The objective for this week is to create two isarithmic maps utilizing precipitation data for the State of Washington; a continuous tone map and a hypsometric tints map. The data utilized for this exercise has been prepared using the PRISM (Parameter-elevation Relationships on Independent Slopes Model) methodology.

The raster data representing annual precipitation (measured in inches) utilized in this map was sourced from the USDA Geospatial Gateway website. Data gathered from climate monitoring stations is transformed into grid points through various methodologies. Although these methodologies exhibit precision in flat terrain, they encounter increased complexity in mountainous areas. The Parameter-elevation Regressions on Independent Slopes Model (PRISM) has proven effective in modeling precipitation in sloped terrains. This technique combines point data with an elevation grid, such as Digital Elevation Models (DEM), to generate estimates of monthly, annual precipitation, and temperature. 

The initial map developed utilized continuous tone symbology. This representation method employs a gradient of colors that transition smoothly, rather than relying on distinct symbols or categories. In this approach, the colors on the map progress gradually from red to yellow, then to green, and ultimately to blue, creating a cohesive visual surface. The implementation of continuous tone symbology in these maps significantly improves the perception of continuity and fluidity in the presented data. Additionally, a hillshade effect was incorporated to further enhance the visual impact.

In the second map, we created a layout utilizing hypsometric tints, a hillshade effect, and contour lines. An isarithmic map featuring hypsometric tints employs contour lines and distinct colors to represent varying elevation levels. We employed ArcGIS Pro to convert the raster cell values into integers, facilitating the creation of hypsometric tints. Additionally, we utilized ArcGIS Pro to generate two new layers, a hillshade layer and a contour layer because elevation data is incorporated into the dataset. The hillshade layer was generated by utilizing the "Create Surface" function located within the Raster Analysis tab, while the contour layer was produced using the "Contour List" tool.

I found this week's laboratory session to be highly enjoyable. Upon completing the project, I took the initiative to download the PRISM data set for the year 2024 from https://prism.oregonstate.edu. I subsequently analyzed the yearly precipitation data for the continental United States, which further enriched my understanding of the creation and analysis of isarithmic maps.

Moduel 5 - Choropleth and Proportional Symbol Mapping

The primary objectives for this week's module include understanding choropleth map classifications, selecting appropriate color schemes, employing SQL Query language, utilizing proportional or graduated symbols, and creating thematic picture symbols. Choropleth maps are a type of thematic map that employs various colors or shading to represent data visually. It is crucial to normalize data in choropleth maps to ensure accuracy in the results.

In this lab exercise, we will utilize the provided data to develop a choropleth map that illustrates the varying population densities across European countries, as well as the wine consumption levels in each country.

Mapping population density rather than raw population counts on a choropleth map is key to understanding how people are distributed. Raw counts can mislead comparisons between different-sized areas, as larger regions may appear more populated even if they are not dense. Normalizing population data provides a clearer picture and meaningful comparisons.

Analyzing European population data shows that Russia has the most people at 104,687,534, but its density is only 26.47 individuals per square kilometer, given its large area. In contrast, the Netherlands has a population of 16,852,340, with a much higher density of 487 individuals per square kilometer, demonstrating that it has a higher population density despite its smaller size.

The initial step involves incorporating the EuropePopulation dataset into a new ArcGIS Pro project. Upon reviewing the data table, we identified four countries; Monaco, Gibraltar, Malta, and Jersey, characterized by high population density but notably low wine consumption, which can be excluded from our analysis. Additionally, these countries occupy a relatively small geographical area. Given the potential for these countries may skew the results, we have opted to exclude them from our analysis. To facilitate this exclusion, we employed the SQL expression feature available within the advanced symbology options.

The population density field POP_DENSIT, which represents population normalized by area, was utilized to classify the data into four distinct categories: equal interval, quantile, standard deviation, and natural break. Upon analyzing four data classifications, I found that quantile classification best represents population density in European countries. It provides an even data distribution and a clear legend. In comparison, equal interval and standard deviation classifications showed uneven distributions, with some classes having few countries and others many.

Initially, I thought natural breaks would be the best approach because it groups data effectively, minimizing within-class variance. However, it resulted in some classes with very low counts. Thus, quantile classification proved to be the most appropriate choice, ensuring fair country distribution and clarity in the legend. Furthermore, I used a continuous gradient from light to dark, where lighter shades represent low population density and darker shades show high density. This method allows for quick comparisons of population densities, making it easy to identify countries with high or low population density.

Subsequently, I utilized the labeling properties to configure the labels for all countries, deliberately excluding those with very small land areas. In order to maintain control over the labels, I exported them as annotations, which enables the adjustment and repositioning of the labels as necessary.

Next, I duplicated the EuropePopulation layer and renamed it to WineProportional. This involved reclassifying the layer using the Wine_Cnsmp field and applying proportional symbols as the symbology. Additionally, I incorporated another layer and applied graduated symbols for its visualization. I used the graduated symbol method to show wine consumption data for each country. This method divides data into classes, each with a specific symbol size. I created five unique symbols for the five classification classes. This approach helped control symbol sizes and reduced overlap issues. However, size variations might be hard for some people to understand. To improve clarity, I designed custom symbols with different sizes and images to better represent the levels of wine consumption.

I would like to share that I utilized the Feature to Point tools to convert symbols into point data, which proved to be extremely beneficial. This functionality enabled me to move or delete symbology, allowing for greater flexibility in repositioning symbols on the map. Moreover, I utilized the site Color blind test simulator/ to check the PDF map for color blindness accessibility.

 

Type of Blindness 

Type of Blindness 

Type of Blindness 

Module 4 - Data Classification

This week's module focuses on data classification, which is the process of grouping similar values into distinct classes. This technique is commonly utilized in choropleth maps, which employ varying color shades to represent data such as population statistics, election outcomes, and the spread of diseases. The choice of map classification is crucial for effective map presentation, as different classification methods applied to the same data can yield varying interpretations. In this lab assignment, we applied four distinct classification methods to the same dataset and compared the outcomes. The four classifications utilized are Equal Interval, Quantile, Standard Deviation, and Natural Breaks.

The objectives of this assignment include understanding the distinctions among the four classifications and comparing the results derived from the same data set. Additionally, it aims to identify the suitable data fields and classification method necessary for specific purposes, such as analyzing the distribution of citizens aged 65 and older in comparison to evaluating the overall senior citizen population.

The source data used in this analysis is derived from the Miami-Dade census. We developed two maps; the first map is based on the percentage of the population age 65 and older, while the second map represents the population age 65 and older, normalized by square footage. This normalization involves dividing the population count by the area in square feet. We chose to normalize the data by area to avoid potential misinterpretations that may arise from using raw data. For instance, when examining the raw data for census tract 107.04 and census tract 166, both tracts report the same population count for individuals age 65 and above. However, this figure can be misleading, as census tract 107.04 encompasses a significantly larger area of 17.7967 acres compared to the much smaller area of 0.384007 acres for census tract 166. To provide a more accurate representation of the data, it is essential to consider the area in square miles.

NAME10	NAMELSAD10	AGE_65_UP	sq_mi
107.04	Census Tract 107.04	505	17.7967
166	Census Tract 166	505	0.384007

This blog presents the first map, focusing on the classification of the population aged 65 and older in Dade County by percentage. I initiated a new ArcGIS Pro project and applied symbology to the PCT_65ABV field. The first classification method employed is equal interval, which divides the data range between the maximum and minimum values into equal classes based on the user-defined number of classes. In this case, the values range from 0 to 79.17. The difference, 79.17, divided into five classes results in intervals of 15.83. Consequently, class 1 encompasses values from 0 to 15.83, and class 2 ranges from 15.84 to 31.67, continuing in this manner. While this method is straightforward, it may not effectively represent the data, particularly if the data is not continuous, leading to some classes having zero counts while others have significantly high counts. In this analysis, classes 1 and 2 had counts of 343 and 169, respectively, while classes 3, 4, and 5 had counts of 8, 0, and 1, which can be misleading.

The second classification method is the quantile method, which divides data in ascending order into equal parts based on the number of assigned classes. For instance, with a total of 521 records we have in our data layer divided by 5 classes, each class will contain 104 records (521/5), with one record added to the first class. While this method ensures that no class has a count of zero, unlike equal interval classification, it may create misleading representations. Similar features can be assigned to different classes, while distinctly different features can be grouped within the same class. For example, class 5 ranges from 19.95 to 79.17, significantly broader than class 1 (0-8.96) and class 2 (8.97-11.74). This discrepancy arises when applying quantile distribution to non-linearly distributed data, potentially leading to arbitrary class breaks that lack meaningful interpretation.

The third method is the standard deviation classification method. This method organizes data into classes based on deviation values calculated from the mean. To determine these values, we first calculate the mean (μ) of the data, followed by the deviation from the mean using the formula  where N represents the number of observations. A low standard deviation indicates that the data is closely clustered around the mean, while a high standard deviation signifies a wider spread. In this analysis, the mean is 14.28, with a standard deviation of 7.18, a maximum of 79.17, and a minimum of 0. The data distribution shows that 28.98% falls into class 2, 39.54% into class 3, and 21.11% into class 4, indicating approximately 90% of the data clusters around the mean. Additionally, the histogram is right-skewed, featuring a longer tail on the right, which suggests that most data points are concentrated at the lower end, with fewer larger values extending to the right, likely due to outliers exceeding 2.5 standard deviations. A divergent color ramp was employed to effectively illustrate negative and positive standard deviation.

The last classification method is the natural break classification, or Jenks. It is a widely used method in cartography that organizes similar values through an algorithm identifying natural breaks in the data. This technique establishes class breaks to minimize variance within each class while maximizing variance between classes. Its application may result in differing numbers of observations within each group and can complicate comparisons between maps using different datasets due to its data-driven nature. It is particularly effective for datasets with uneven distributions without a significant skew towards either end. In this assignment, we categorized the data into five classes based on natural breaks. From analyzing the result, we observe that most data points fell into classes 2, 3, and 4, leading to uneven class ranges. Class 5 has a range of 29.86 to 79.17 due to the right-skewed distribution of the data.

In conclusion, it is essential to conduct a thorough analysis of the data initially to ensure that the presentation of the information is as accurate as possible. I previously worked with data classifications but I did not fully understand the differences between these classifications. After completing this assignment, I now have a clearer understanding of the distinctions between these classifications and how each one is being calculated.

 

 

Module 3 - Cartographic Design in ArcGIS Pro

A good map should meet the user’s needs, be easy to use, accurate, clear, communicative, and visually appealing. There is no best way to create a map that is why it is important to follow rules and guidelines to support design choices. Module 3 introduces us to Gestalt’s principles of perceptual organization, developed in 1920. The theory explain how humans perceive individual components of a graphical image and subsequently organize these components into a cohesive whole.

The main key concepts for Gestalt’s map principle are visual hierarchy, contrast, figure-ground, and visual balance. Visual hierarchy organizes map elements based on their importance, highlighting essential features and minimizing less critical information. Contrast creates visual distinction between features using variations in spacing, size, shape, and color. The figure-ground relationship emphasizes the importance of assigning greater visual prominence to map features that are pertinent to the subject, thereby creating an illusion of proximity for the map user. Visual balance involves creating a balanced layout by adjusting the size, weight, and orientation of the map.

In this lab I will be creating a map showing public schools in Ward 7, Washington D.C. area and applying Gestalt’s principle in our map design. The design process starts with deciding how to share the map, this will influence the color schemes, scale, and file format. Next, choosing the scale and projection, then classifying and symbolizing the data. Finally, evaluating the map for clarity and making revisions if needed.

All necessary data for this lab has been provided. Upon adding the layers to a new project in ArcGIS Pro, I discovered that the school layer included all schools in the Washington D.C. area. At first, I utilized the "Select by Location" tool to isolate only the schools in the Ward 7 area and subsequently created a new layer from the selected schools. The primary objective of the map is to illustrate the locations of public schools in the Ward 7 area of Washington, D.C. My aim was to present the schools' locations with utmost clarity and to create a visual hierarchy. To achieve this, I employed a distinct Magenta color to symbolize the schools, setting them apart from other entities on the map. While maintaining a consistent symbol for all schools, I incorporated various color hues to represent different types of schools—elementary, middle, and high schools—and adjusted their sizes to enhance visual differentiation. Furthermore, I labeled the schools using larger text compared to other labels and added a halo effect for added emphasis.

For the road layer I applied a red color with varying thickness to the highways, contrasting with the dark gray used for the major roads, which establishes a clear hierarchy. Additionally, I utilized a dark gray color with a thinner line for the minor roads in comparison to the major roads. Although the map includes all roads, I have labeled only the major roads and highways to maintain clarity and improve readability.

For Ward 7 area layer, I propose utilizing a lighter color to differentiate it from the neighboring regions, thereby highlighting the study area and enhancing the overall figure-ground relationship. After testing several colors, I ultimately chose Mango color, as it effectively accentuates the study area. Moreover, this color improves the visibility of other colors within the vicinity. Additionally, I employed a dark brown dashed line to delineate the boundaries of the neighborhood clusters, as this color complements the Mango hue without overwhelming it. I also used the same color for labeling neighborhoods. Furthermore, applying a light gray color to the surrounding area effectively accentuated the focus on the study area.

The process of creating the layout and achieving a balanced design encountered challenges due to the geographical representation of the Washington, D.C. area and the specific location of Ward 7. A significant amount of white space surrounding the map needed to be effectively utilized for various map elements and information. I strategically arranged the elements based on their size and the data they represented. The legend was positioned in the top right corner of the map, utilizing the available space, while the inset map was placed in the upper left area. The north arrow and scale bar were located in the lower right section. To ensure layout balance, I utilized the remaining white space to incorporate a table listing school names and addresses. Furthermore, I selected a larger font for the title, positioning it at the top, which was the most appropriate location. The source data, preparer's name, and date were included at the bottom of the layout, using a smaller font size than the other text elements in the map layout.

In conclusion, the utilization of color to establish hierarchy and contrast within maps plays a crucial role in this exercise. The selection of colors should be strategically employed to improve the legibility of the map. Features that require emphasis should be assigned colors that distinctly stand out and contrast with those of less significant elements. Additionally, the color wheel should be utilized as a resource for making good color choices.

 

Module 2 - Typography

This week's lab assignment involved the creation of a map of Florida. The map is expected to feature various layers, including major cities, rivers, the state capital, as well as Florida's lakes and swamps. The primary goal of this assignment is to ensure accurate labeling of the map in accordance with general typographic standards, utilizing appropriate type placement for different types of features, converting labels into annotations, and ultimately designing a layout that incorporates all essential map elements.

In this lab exercise, I employed ArcGIS Pro to develop a well-structured map. I began by initiating a new project and incorporating the layers specified in the lab assignment. The initial task involved generating labels for the major cities in Florida. I applied symbology to differentiate between the two features, "County Seat" and "Populated Places," thereby establishing two distinct label classes. Each class was assigned a unique text style and size according to its ordinal value.

 

The subsequent step involved incorporating the river layer and assigning labels to it. Upon thorough review of the attribute table, it became clear that the field name RName should be utilized for labeling instead of Name, as the latter contains unnecessary additional information. Initially, it is essential to configure the label properties; otherwise, the labels will default to a setting that results in a stacked, cluttered appearance, making them difficult to read. In cartography, it is customary to use italicized text to denote water features such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, as this style visually conveys the movement of water. Additionally, blue is typically employed for these labels. Therefore, I will adjust the label properties to apply a blue effect, use italics, and select the River placement with an offset curve for positioning. Consequently, I generated annotations from these labels. The benefit of utilizing annotations lies in the fact that they are features that can be modified, unlike standard labels. I followed the same steps to create annotations for Florida swamps and marshes feature class.

 

The next step is to create a map showing Florida rivers, major cities, state capital and Florida lakes and swamps. To accomplish this task I used the layer properties definition query to show only the rivers needed in this map. I then customized the annotations by adjusting the vertices of the labels to ensure that the text aligned smoothly with the river's shape, and modified the color to correspond with the river's hue. I opted for a dark blue, bold font to enhance visibility and readability. I created a new query for the cities layer to show only the cities needed on the map. I added the state capital city layer to the map and modified the symbology from a point to a star, distinguishing it from other cities in Florida. Furthermore, I used a larger font size for the capital city's label to highlight its ordinal ranking, and I incorporated halos around the cities labels to enhance their visibility.

 

Finally, I developed a new layout and included all necessary map elements. My primary challenge was locating an appropriate basemap that lacked labels to avoid any interference with my own labeling. Unfortunately, I could not locate an available basemap that met this criterion. The only option was a grey basemap, but I desired one with more color. My only option is to customize a basemap to turn off or delete the labels. I selected the map for customization and accessed it through the Vector Tile Style Editor from ESRI. I then disabled all labels and saved the changes. Subsequently, I added the customized basemap in ArcGIS Pro, and it functioned effectively.

 

In the end, I would like to take a moment to share my experience with this lesson’s lab. Initially, I encountered an issue while creating the query for the river layer; specifically, St. Marys River appeared when it should not have. After reviewing the attribute table, I discovered that the name associated with this segment was mistakenly labeled as St. Johns River in the RName field I used for labeling. Furthermore, I utilized labeling for road centerlines at work, which had already been established by the road classes. I appreciate that this assignment guided us in creating label classes from symbology. Lastly, I was introduced to the Vector Style Tile Editor, although I had not previously used it. I am pleased to have had the opportunity to apply it in this assignment.

 

 

Module 1 - Map Critique

Our first assignment in Module 1 involved analyzing and interpreting two different maps: one that is well-designed and another that is poorly designed. The main objective of this lab is to understand and comprehend the design principles of maps, as well as to learn how to distinguish between a well-designed map and a poorly-designed one. This objective can be achieved by assessing the map's cartographic design, elements, layouts, and design concepts, and substantiating our assessment with two or three of Tufte's six principles or commandments of mapping.

Well-Designed Map

The first map I selected for the well-designed map was a map for the City of Bellevue facilities locations. The map’s main purpose is to show the locations of various facilities in the City of Bellevue, such as police stations, fire stations, community facilities, government buildings, hospitals, libraries, post offices, and schools. It is well-designed, balanced, and easy to understand, aligning with Edward Tufte's map principle that maps should present important information clearly. 

The map is made for both the citizens and visitors of Bellevue to find different facilities. The facilities are marked with distinct colors that match the symbols in the legend; for instance, schools are shown in magenta and fire stations in red. The facilities are labelled by name on the map, although addresses are not included, main roads are clearly labeled to help locate them. 

Tufte second map principle states that the purpose of maps is what drives the choice of data classification scheme. The map effectively demonstrates its purpose by using qualitative data represented through various colors and shapes. It also shows parks, categorized by different shades of green, streams in blue, and city limits in a thick dashed gray line. While there is no road symbol in the legend, road names are legibly displayed. The use of various symbols for different facilities helps recognition, and the colors chosen for parks and roads enhance the overall clarity. Areas outside the city are distinguished by a different color, making the city boundaries stand out. The map uses recognizable symbols, such as the H for hospitals and a transportation library symbol for libraries, which are easily understood. Moreover, I think that Tufte third map principle, that map labels should be effective, was implemented in this map layout.

The layout is balanced, with the map title “Bellevue Facility Locations” clearly displayed at the top. The map elements are logically arranged, and the scale bar is appropriate for the map context. Symbols, though missing for roads, are otherwise well represented in the legend, which is clearly labeled. Overall, the map is visually appealing and effectively follows cartographic design principles.

Poorly-Designed Map

The purpose of this map is to show the population of United States capitals in 1999. At first glance, the map feels overwhelming and hard to understand. It seems intended for those who want to compare the populations of capital cities, but it lacks clarity and sufficient information. It is true that maps should contain minimal unnecessary information (Tufte fourth map principle) but the map should be clear, readable, and understandable. It should contain all the elements needed to make the map complete.

Using different circle sizes to represent the populations of capital cities is a reasonable choice, but poor labeling and insufficient information make this map poorly designed. The map does not follow Tufte's first map principle, which requires all necessary information for clarity. Although circle sizes indicate population ranges, they clutter the map, making it hard to see which city each circle represents. Overlapping circles further complicate interpretation. A legend is included but is unclear and poorly labeled, not explaining what the size numbers mean or providing specific population figures. 

The layout has weak design with unused white spaces that can be utilized to add more details and supporting information. Not all necessary elements are included on the map; it is missing a scale bar, north arrow, borders, and neatlines. It is evident that Tufte's third map principle, which states that maps should be labeled effectively, is not being adhered to. The title is suitably sized but does not clarify the map's purpose, leading to an overall ineffective illustration of the city populations. This map is ultimately poorly designed.

In conclusion, a good map must successfully follows cartographic principles, ensuring clarity and usability for the map’s viewer. The use of distinct colors and symbols, along with effective labeling, enhances the map's informativeness and accessibility. 

About Me

Hello, my name is Maha! I am originally from the middle east. I have a degree in Architectural Engineering. I lived in Ohio for 19 years and then in Virginia for 5 years before moving to Florida in 2017. I started my career with the city of Columbus, Ohio working in AutoCAD mapping. I am now a GIS Analyst with the City of Tampa, transportation engineering department. Most of my experience in GIS is data editing and data analysis. Taking GIS courses will allow me to explore various functionality of GIS. I am looking forward to learn new thing. I am also interested in learning Python programming for GIS and I hope I can accomplish my goal.

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/0f80b133572646a0b41b2d2165b2d4b0

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