The general format for a map citation is as follows: Map Author. Map title [format]. Scale. Place of publication: Publisher, Date (if known).
Here's a breakdown of each element:
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Map Author: This could be an individual, a cartographic organization, or a government agency. If no author is explicitly stated, consider the publisher as the author.
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Map Title: Use the full and exact title of the map, as it appears on the map itself.
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[Format]: Specify the format of the map (e.g., [Map], [Online map], [Atlas]). This helps users understand the type of resource they are referencing.
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Scale: Indicate the scale of the map, usually found on the map itself (e.g., 1:24,000). The scale is crucial for understanding the map's level of detail.
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Place of Publication: The city where the map was published.
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Publisher: The name of the organization or company that published the map.
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Date (if known): The year the map was published. If no date is explicitly stated, look for a copyright date or an estimated date.
Example:
U.S. Geological Survey. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington [Map]. 1:62,500. Reston, VA: USGS, 2016.
Key Considerations:
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Different Citation Styles: Note that specific citation styles (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.) might require slight variations in the formatting and order of elements. Always consult the relevant style guide for precise instructions.
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Online Maps: For online maps, include the URL and date of access.
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Digital Maps: If the map is digital, include the file format (e.g., PDF, JPEG).
By following this format, you can accurately and consistently cite maps in your research and writing.
