What is 'cartography'?

Cartography encompasses both the art and the science of map-making, which makes it a multifaceted discipline. It involves not only the technical skills necessary for creating maps, such as understanding scale, projection, and data visualization, but also the artistic aspects, such as the effective use of colors, symbols, and layout to communicate geographic information clearly and effectively. This blend of art and science helps ensure that maps are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, providing users with an intuitive understanding of the information being presented.

While the study of map-making could denote a more academic approach to cartography, it does not fully encapsulate the practical and creative processes involved. Other choices, such as the focus on navigational systems or online mapping services, represent narrow aspects of cartography rather than its comprehensive definition. Cartography is fundamentally about the complete range of activities involved in creating maps, from conceptualization and design to the final product's functionality and accessibility. Thus, identifying cartography as the art and science of map-making captures the full scope of the discipline.