A map is a representative depiction that emphasizes relationships between foundations of some space, such as objects, regions, or themes. Many maps are static, fixed to paper, or some other durable medium, while others are dynamic or interactive
Studying a world map with specific information in India map is essential to become a Topper in the UPSC exam.
Why the knowledge of map is important for you?
- Every year in the Preliminary Exam, Maps-related questions are asked.
- In the Mains answers also, integration of Maps when required will fetch extra marks.
- Knowledge of Map will help you to learn current affairs easily and clearly.
- In Essay paper, maps could be used to add value to your answer. This can be done when you are writing topics associated with environment, geography, Geopolitics, etc.
How to practice and learn Map?
- Buy a good Atlas and always keep it on your study table. If you are a Geography Optional student, have one additional Atlas of different publications.
- Every day while reading News Paper, use your Atlas to trace the country and city of the events associated.
- While reading fundamental materials also refers to the Atlas. for e.g. when you read about the Panipat battle in History, refer to the Atlas to find the location of the Panipat and learn as to why three great battles have been fought at this place.
- Similarly, when you read a news article about the formation of Cyclone, use your Atlas to learn about the sea, coastal cities which may be affected by the Cyclone.
- Allot 20 minutes daily to learn Map systematically
- Adopt both Macro to Micro Approach and Micro to Macro Approach in learning Atlas.
- The micro to Macro Approach: This should be adopted to learn things from a known point to an unknown point. This is a bottom-to-top approach. for e.g. if you already know the location of Delhi, from there trace the nearby cities, river in Delhi, road network, world heritage sites, etc..
- Macro to Micro Approach: This should be adopted to learn about a new area where you have no previous knowledge. For e.g. let’s take South America. So, first, you have to start from observing the outline of South America, then one by one the countries, then learn the mountains, Deserts, forests, grasslands, etc. then you can learn the river boundaries of the countries, navigation, items of trade, etc…