Most maps depict a lot of information in a small amount of space.
So they use symbols. When you look at a map, you'll find that each feature on the map has a location, some shape, and a symbol that represents one or more of its characteristics. Why maps use symbols Symbols allow a map to show lots of information in a small space. By using symbols, maps can have more content and less clutter. Symbols let you scan a map rapidly for important information.