# Map quality checklist

Time & Spatial. Use this on every map before it leaves, and keep a copy with the project.

## Purpose and message
- [ ] The audience, message, extent, medium and evidence are written down.
- [ ] Layers that do not serve the message are hidden.

## Page and layout
- [ ] The page size and orientation suit the medium.
- [ ] Margins are consistent, and text stays inside them.
- [ ] Related items share edges, and nothing overlaps by accident.

## Hierarchy and text
- [ ] The title states the subject and the place, with the date where it matters.
- [ ] There are clear levels: title, subtitle, legend, notes.
- [ ] One font family is used, and all text is readable at the final size.

## Map frame
- [ ] The extent shows the whole study area, with no important feature cut off.
- [ ] The scale is a round number, and the scale and CRS are stated where they matter.

## Colour and legend
- [ ] The colour scheme matches the data: sequential, diverging or qualitative.
- [ ] Classes can be told apart, also in grayscale.
- [ ] The legend uses plain names, units and class limits, and its symbols match the map.

## Supporting items
- [ ] The scale bar is linked to the right map item.
- [ ] A north arrow, grid or locator map is present only if it helps the reader.

## Sources
- [ ] Data providers, dates, method, CRS and licence attribution are on the page.
- [ ] Known limits that could change a conclusion are stated.

## Export
- [ ] The format and resolution suit the use.
- [ ] No stray selections, temporary layers, missing fonts or broken images remain.
- [ ] The exported file has been reopened and inspected, not assumed correct.