STUDY GUIDE FOR FINAL EXAM

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List of reading assignments that will be covered on the final exam

1. From the Dent textbook (Cartography: Thematic Map Design):

Chapter 8, Mapping Point Phenomena: The Common Dot Map

Chapter 9, The Proportional Symbol Map - focus on understanding concepts and not on memorizing equations.

Chapter 13, The Map Design Process and the Elements of Map Composition

Chapter 14, only pages 277-283, Thematic Map Typographics & Design

Chapter 15, Principles for Color Thematic Maps - read for general principles and don't get bogged down in the terminology.

[Note that Chapters 11 and 18 from the reading list have been omitted; you are not responsible for them.]

2. From the ArcView GIS Exercises on the CD from the Dent textbook:

Proportional Symbol Mapping

Dot Density Mapping
 

Proportional Symbol Mapping

1. Explain these three methods for setting symbol size: absolute scaling, apparent-magnitude scaling, and range-grading, and note an example of when each might be the most appropriate method to use.

2. How does one create an outlined, opaque symbol for use in proportional symbol mapping in ArcView?

Dot Density Mapping

1. Since most desktop mapping software places dots randomly, what strategy can be used to achieve a more accurate display of changing density?

2. Explain some general guidelines for how to select dot values and size for a dot density map.

ArcView Skills

1. Be able to describe conceptually the steps necessary to create a new field (variable) in a theme table based on a mathematical equation involving two existing fields (variables).

2. Describe conceptually how to join a database file (.dbf) to a shapefile's theme table.

3. Explain how to create a new shapefile that is a subset of a bigger existing shapefile. Describe what results from this procedure.

4. Describe the conceptual procedures for creating and displaying a point layer that contains the centroids of polygons in an existing shapefile.

5. Be able to create (and describe how to do it) new point, line, and polygon shapefiles using on-screen digitizing including use of snapping tolerance and autocomplete tools.

6.  Be able to demonstrate any ArcView skills that you used in the combined homework Exercises #4 & #5.  Be ready to give me a quick demonstration (10 minutes maximum) during the final exam period.

Map Design Considerations

1. Describe good design practices for labeling point symbols.

2. Describe good design practices for labeling area features.

3. Discuss the two major factors that contribute to visual balance in a map.

4. How can a map element's position in the visual hierarchy be changed? Be sure your answer indicates the relationship between visual hierarchy and intellectual level.

5. Explain a few general functions of color in mapping.