Cartography Shorthand
Added 2017-04-07 16:00:54 +0000 UTCClick here to return to the course index
Cartography shorthand is exactly what it sounds like: using quickly made icons/symbols to represent larger features on a map. To demonstrate just how quickly you can sketch a map, watch this five minute video on how I make a “scout’s map”.
You get the general idea of the lay of the land and it took me only minute to make. I have found this is the best way for me to start when creating maps. I will often sketch out an entire world map similar to what you saw in the video; erasing, redrawing, and overlapping pieces as I see fit.
And now you know my dirty little secret…my first drafts are just horrible looking! But they are simply meant to give me an idea of where things are going so I can plan out plenty of space for the things I want to add to the map.
OPTIONAL HOMEWORK: Make a practice scout map using a scene from your favorite story, movie, show, or recent game session.
