Mapmakers use symbols to represent information about areas. A mapmaker uses lines to communicate. Those lines may represent streets. ... They use pictures as symbols.

Why mapmakers use symbols on a map?

Cartographers use symbols to represent geographic features. ... A map usually has a legend, or key, that gives the scale of the map and explains what the various symbols represent.

What tools do mapmakers use?

Cartographers frequently use digital cameras and scanners in addition to satellite images to capture visuals for a map. They may utilize drafting equipment, such as lighting tables, straightedges, stencils, lettering aids, drafting scales, T-squares, protractors and dividers, to sketch and develop rough drafts.