Map-making, also known as cartography, is the art and science of creating visual representations of geographical areas. It involves gathering data about the land, such as its features, boundaries, and landmarks, and then translating that information into a map format. This process can include both hand-drawn and digital techniques, using tools like GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to analyze and display spatial information. Maps serve various purposes, from navigation to education, and can depict different themes, such as topography, population density, or climate. Effective map-making requires an understanding of scale, symbols, and color to communicate information clearly and accurately to the map's intended audience.