Visualisation of Geodata and Map Making#

This chapter focuses on the visualisation and representation of Geodata. The first chapter introduces visual variables, which are the main elements how to select a symbol to represent geographic information. Visual variables are the graphical means for visually transcribing information. This chapter will also cover how to set up symbols, colours, labels, and styles within QGIS. The second chapter is dedicated to the creation of finished (and printable) maps. In QGIS, this is done in the Print Layout Composer. The last chapter, “Examples of Good Map Design”, showcases good map design explaining the good design choices within their context. This chapter also covers some of the common errors in Map design.

Chapter

Competences & Objectives

Chapter 1: Symbology and Colours

At the end of this chapter, you should: Know the different visual variables; Know what to consider when visualising certain types of information; Know how to load and save styles.

Chapter 2: Styling Vector Data

At the end of this chapter, you should: Know how to open the styling panel; Know how to configure the symbology and colour for vector data.

Chapter 3: Labels for Vector Data

At the end of this chapter, you should: Know how to set up labels for vector and know what to consider when setting up labels.

Chapter 4: Exporting and Importing Styles

At the end of this chapter, you should: Know how to import and export styles in QGIS, know how to share styles with colleagues to facilitate collaborations.

Chapter 5: Symbologiy for Raster Data

At the end of this chapter, you should: Know whats different about styling raster data compared to vector data, know how to set up a colour ramp for raster data.

Chapter 6: The Print Layout

At the end of this chapter, you should: Know the basics of good map composition; Know which elements are essential for a completed map; Know how to create map templates; Know how to use the Atlas function.

Chapter 7: Understanding the Print Layout Composer

At the end of this chapter, you should: Understand the print layout composer in QGIS; Know how to add and configure elements to the print layout; know how to export finished maps; know how to create and use map templates; know how to use the Atlas function.

Chapter 8: Good Map Design & Semiological Errors

At the end of this chapter, you should: Know a few examples of good map design and how to recreate them; Know which semiological errors to avoid.

Exercises for Module 4

Here you can find all the exercises related to module 4.