Elaboration of topographic bases for statistical maps, their contents and importance

Abstract The author’s objective is to present the role of base contents for a statistical map and determine its desired features which would influence optimum perception of the main contents of the map. The article consists of two main parts. The first part discusses selection of cartographic projection. Presented recommendations could be summarized in a short conclusion that application of equal-area projections is the optimum solution. It results from the necessity of preserving correct spatial relations during the perception of the thematic map contents. It is recommended to show cartographic graticule on statistical maps, for it helps to recognize geometrical attributes of the map and plays the localizing role. The second part of the article concentrates on the issue of selection of base contents’ elements on statistical maps. Such selection depends on the method of presentation of the thematic contents of the map. Because of that the optimum contents of the map is discussed in the context of basic cartographic presentation methods, i.e. the dot method, the choropleth method, the diagram method and the isoline method. The role of base elements in the process of reading of the main contents is also underlined. It is shown that it is not only the localizing role. Including additional elements of base contents facilitates understanding of the spatial distribution of the phenomenon which is the main topic of the map. The article encourages extension of the contents of statistical maps by additional elements of contents, which, while keeping correct spatial relations, can improve the efficiency of map use.