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The Legend

Every map has a legend, or key, that explains the meaning of the symbols used on the map. The legend is usually printed right on the map, although some maps, like USGS topographic maps, publish legends separately. Legends tell you what different lines mean, whether they are roads, trails, power lines, streams, or boundaries of some sort. Legends also show different symbols and translate them, like the symbol used for a spring, windmill, or maybe a gravel pit. The legend also provides information about the map including its title, scale, projection, cartographer, publisher, date of compilation, and date of printing.