be drawn in 2 dimensions as seen from above, or on a globe
be oriented so that north is at the top, with a compass symbol
include a scale as either a bar with labelled divisions or a ratio (eg 1:25,000)
include a legend to colours and symbols
use universal colours (eg blue water, brown land, green vegetation, white ice)
include a coordinate system such as a number and letter grid (eg a street map), or lines of latitude (east–west parallels) and longitude (north–south meridians)
include a declaration of the projection type or method, where relevant (eg equidistant, equal area, conformal)
include alternative text for accessibility, if published online
provide other necessary information that is critical to understanding the map.
