> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://bcds.gitbook.io/handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://bcds.gitbook.io/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping.md). # Introduction to Mapping *Introduction to Mapping* discusses fundamental concepts that inform spatial data related research, the use of [GIS](https://bcds.gitbook.io/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/overview/mapping/gis) tools, and mapping project creation. While the focus in this section will be on spatial data based maps (i.e., GIS), it is important to note that simple maps can be created in tools like Knighlab StoryMaps, Google MyMaps, and even ArcGIS Online without sophisticated data. In this case, marks are made on maps using things like "pins" and "notes" that can either be added by searching coordinates or manually placing them on a designated image. ### Why Mapping? Integrating mapping methods into a DS project can offer a variety of helpful advantages in terms of visualization, storytelling, and analysis. Mapping can make complex information and arguments more digestible to the average reader, combining a multitude of information into a single comprehensible figure. It can also help an author tell a story with their data, guiding the viewer around a landscape as the story unfolds with tools such as Knightlab Storymaps. Finally, it opens the door to more specialized spatial analysis through the use of programs like ArcGIS or QGIS, taking advantage of modern computing to reinforce an academic argument to an audience. ### Contents * [What is Spatial Data?](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping/what-is-spatial-data.md) * [Vector & Raster Data](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping/vector-and-raster-data.md) * [Vector and Raster Data Examples](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping/vector-and-raster-data/vector-and-raster-data-examples.md) * [File Formats Examples](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping/vector-and-raster-data/file-format-examples.md) * [Starting a Mapping Project](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping/starting-a-mapping-project.md) * [Getting Started Questions](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping/starting-a-mapping-project/getting-started-questions.md) * [Project Examples](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/data/data-projects/examples.md) * [Mapping Tools and Platforms](/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping/starting-a-mapping-project/mapping-tools-and-platforms.md) --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://bcds.gitbook.io/handbook/digital-scholarship-methods/introduction-to-mapping.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.