Map Projections: Part 1

Map projections are used to display 3 dimensional  areas in a 2 dimensional manner. This week we learned how to present the same dataset in three different map projections, so we could see the variation in area of each projection arranged. Different map projections vary in size and distortion. Understanding what each projection looks like and what data you are using it important in choosing which projection to use for your map. Uniformity in map projection choice is essential in making a map that is clean and represents the area and the data you are conveying. The map below shows 3 different map projections, Albers, UTM 16 N, and State Plane N, of four counties in Florida. There is a table provided with the square area in miles for each county in each projection.  According to the data in the  table referenced on the map, Miami-Dade County has the most deviation in comparison by area, followed by Polk County, Alachua County, and Escambia County. This is because the counties that are closest to the UTM 16 N and State Plane N zone display less of a difference in variation. UTM 16 N and State Plane N are limited to a smaller portion of the Florida panhandle and thusly will be more accurate showing the counties within their boundaries. Because of this, Albers, which is a global projection, is best used to signify Florida state. This week, the biggest challenge was formatting the table as neatly as possible. I chose to insert an Excel table in Microsoft Word and format it to an appropriate size and without gridlines. Then, I just copied and pasted in ArcMap. It was my favorite outcome of presenting the data, so I went with it! Projections has been the most challenging lab thus far. I hope I get comfortable with it soon, considering choosing the right ones dictates how well your map reads!

Albers, UTM, State Plane N Projections of Alachua, Escambia, Miami-Dade, and Polk Counties in Florida