Map Legend

A map legend—also called a map key—is a reference panel that decodes the visual language of a map for the reader. It pairs each symbol, color swatch, line style, or pattern used on the map with a text description of what it represents. Without a clear legend, readers cannot accurately interpret the map’s content, making it one of the most critical elements of cartographic design. Legend design must balance completeness with brevity. Every symbol on the map should appear in the legend, but extraneous entries clutter the layout and slow comprehension. Legends for choropleth or graduated-color maps display the color rampColor RampA color ramp is a graduated sequence of colors used to represent a range of data values on a map. Choosing an appropr... alongside value ranges, while legends for point symbol maps show each icon at its rendered size with a label. Interactive web maps often use collapsible or floating legends that can be toggled to save screen space. Placement conventions vary by medium. Print maps typically position the legend in a corner or margin of the map layoutMap LayoutA map layout is the arrangement of all visual elements—map frame, legend, scale bar, north arrow, title, and source c..., while web maps may use slide-out panels or hover-based tooltips. Accessibility considerations include sufficient font size, high contrast between legend swatches and background, and screen-reader-compatible text alternatives. ArcGISArcGISArcGIS is a leading GIS platform offering tools for spatial analysis, mapping, and data visualization. It serves a wi... Pro, QGISQGISQGIS is a user-friendly, open-source GIS platform that provides tools for geospatial data analysis, mapping, and inte..., MapboxMapboxMapbox is a robust platform that equips developers with tools to create highly customizable, interactive maps for web..., and LeafletLeafletLeaflet is a lightweight, mobile-friendly JavaScript library for building interactive mapping applications. Known for... all provide tools for generating and customizing legends that adapt to the map’s symbologySymbologySymbology in GIS defines how geographic features are visually represented on maps through colors, shapes, sizes, and ... automatically.