Locate the box at the bottom corner of the map. The map key or legend often is located on the bottom right or left corner of the map. In it you will find color-coded boxes and symbols indicating specific information, such as landmarks, rivers, railroads, directions, topography and climates.
Memorize the meanings of the symbols. Map keys often use symbols, such as blue lines for roads, trees for parks and miniature buildings for landmarks. As you memorize each symbol, locate the symbol on the map to create a connection in your mind between the map key and the map.
Practice using the graphic scale. The graphic scale is part of a map key and shows a small section of measurement in miles or kilometers. You can place a piece of paper below the graphic scale much like you would place a ruler on a map. Mark the ends of graphic scale. Place your marked piece of paper along a road or river on the map to get an accurate estimate of how many miles, or kilometers, long the road or river is.
Study the colors on a map key. Small boxes filled with colors often indicate topography, climate, feeding zones for animals or time zone changes. Your map key will tell you what each color stands for, and you can use that information to determine the characteristics of the region you will be traveling to as you plan your trip.
