There are basically six types of maps. Every map has a compass point showing the four basic directions, namely north, south, east and west. In addition, all maps are drawn to a scale. They are climate maps, economic or resource maps, physical maps, political maps, road maps and topographic maps.

Climate maps give information about climatic and precipitation conditions prevalent in a region. Precipitation includes rainfall and snowfall. Economic or resource maps feature the type of natural resources or economic activities that an area is known for. Physical maps show the physical features of an area, such as mountains and rivers. They usually use colours such as blue, green and orange to highlight the water bodies and elevations of mountains (typically green is used for low-lying areas and orange is used for higher altitudes). Political maps show places and clearly indicate state and national boundaries. Capitals and major cities are highlighted appropriately. The common symbol used for national or state capitals is a star within a circle. Road maps show the major highways, railway tracks, airports and places of interest within a country, county, state, province or city. Topographic maps are maps which use contour lines to highlight the shape and elevation of an area. Closer contours mean a steeper terrain, and if the lines are far apart from each other, it indicates a flatter terrain.