There are three Components of Maps – distance, direction and symbol:

• Distance: Maps are drawn to reduced scales. But this reduction is done very carefully so that the distance between the places is real. Therefore, a scale is chosen for this purpose. When large areas like continents or countries are to be shown on a paper, then we use a small scale. When a small area like village or town is to be shown on paper, then we use a large scale.
• Direction: Most maps contain an arrow marked with the letter ‘N’ at the upper right hand corner. This arrow shows the north direction. It is called the north line. When we know the north, we can find out other directions, for example east, west and south.

Symbols: It is not possible to draw on a map the actual shape and size of different features such as buildings, roads, bridges, trees, railway lines or a well. So, they are shown by using certain letters, shades, colours, pictures and lines. These symbols give a lot of information in a limited space. With the use of these symbols, maps can be drawn easily and are simple to read.