There are three components of Maps :
(i) Distance : Distance is an important component for those maps which are drawn to show the distance between the places. The actual distance between the places or objects can be measured by the map. To show the actual distance on the paper is a sensitive work and hence it is done very carefully. In this process, we choose a scale.
Suppose, we have to show distance between the Government School and Hospital of a village; distance between both is 500 metres. We will have to opt for a scale, that may be 200 metres = 1 cm. Therefore, the distance on map will be shown 2.5 cm. When there are large areas such as hundreds of km or thousands of km, we will have to choose a scale. Suppose, 100 km = 1 cm or 1mm etc. The scale is chosen in view of map’s size.
(ii) Direction : Direction is also an important component for the maps. The accurate directions make the maps useful which is made for the same purpose. On the upper right comer of the maps symbol of arrow marked with the letter ‘N’ is represented. There are four major directions-North, South, East and West. These are called cardinal points. Other four intermediate directions are – North- East(NE), South-East(SE), South-West (SW), and North-West (NW). These intermediate directions help us to locate any place more accurately.
(iii) Symbols : Third important component of maps is symbol. It is not possible to show each and every thing on the maps, hence many things or objects or places are shown with the help of symbols. We can show Railway Line, Roads, Boundary, Rivers, Temples, Post office, Police Station, Settlements, Graveyard, forest areas, trees, grass etc., with the help of symbols.
One of the important features of the maps is that the maps have universal language that can be understood by all. There is an international agreement regarding the use of these symbols. These are called conventional symbols.