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