what is the list of symbols on a map called
Map symbolization A map is a smaller representation of an area on the earthâ€™s surface; therefore, map symbols are used to represent real objects. Without symbols, maps would not be possible.[3] Both shapes and colors can be used for symbols on maps. A small circle may mean a point of interest, with a brown circle meaning recreation, red circle meaning services, and green circle meaning rest stop. Colors may cover larger areas of a map, such as green representing forested land and blue representing waterways. To ensure that a person can correctly read a map, a map legend[citation needed] is a key to all the symbols used on a map. It is like a dictionary so you can understand the meaning of what the map represents/[3]