How to Cite Maps

Learn how to properly cite maps, atlases, and cartographic materials in APA format.

Basic Format

Cartographer, C. C. (Year). Title of map [Map]. Publisher. URL

Organization. (Year). Title of map [Type of map]. Retrieved Month Day, Year, from URL

Examples

Print Map

National Geographic Society. (2020). World physical map [Physical map]. National Geographic Maps Division.

Online Map

Google. (2023). Google Maps directions for driving from New York to Boston [Online map]. Retrieved October 15, 2023, from https://www.google.com/maps

Historical Map

Mitchell, S. A. (1860). County map of New England [Historical map]. Library of Congress Geography and Map Division.

Key Elements

Creator Information

  • Cartographer's name
  • Organization
  • Publisher
  • Copyright holder

Map Details

  • Title of map
  • Type of map
  • Scale
  • Edition

Publication Information

  • Publication date
  • Publisher location
  • Access date
  • URL if online

Map Types

Physical Maps

  • Topographic maps
  • Relief maps
  • Terrain maps
  • Climate maps

Thematic Maps

  • Political maps
  • Population maps
  • Economic maps
  • Weather maps

Special Cases

Additional Guidelines

  • Interactive maps
  • GIS data
  • Satellite imagery
  • Custom maps

In-Text Citations

First Citation

Use the creator's name and year:

According to National Geographic Society's (2020) world map...

Subsequent Citations

Use parenthetical citation:

The map (National Geographic Society, 2020) shows...

Copyright and Permissions

  • Map copyright
  • Usage rights
  • Reproduction permissions
  • Attribution requirements
  • Data licenses

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't omit scale information
  • Don't forget map type
  • Don't ignore access date for online maps
  • Don't mix citation styles
  • Don't neglect copyright information