When using maps as a source for topographic descriptions, care should be taken not to read more into the map than is already there. It is quite in order to state the “Valley X is ‘U’ shaped with [[glacial moraine]] at its entrance”, assuming that is what the map shows; the words “glacial moraine” should be explicitly stated on the map. However it is original research to state that “Valley X is glacial in origin” unless the map actually states that (e.g., in a caption), because there might be some other explanation for the valley's origin or the presence of the glacial moraine.
==Description==
WhenMaps describingare theoften routeused to provide a description of linear features, such as a waterway, mountain range, road, railroad, etc.,or a single map should not be used the sole source used to provide the descriptionpipeline. While a map is useful to source details in a general description section, other types of sources should also be used, if available. For some subjects the only sources available will be maps and it will be necessary to have the entire general description sourced from comparingmaps. detailsKeep fromin severalmind mapsthat different types of information will be visible depending on the type of map used (i.e. Howeverroad map, thispolitical map, topographical map, or recreational map). Ideally a map of each of those types should at least be doneconsulted in drafting a description, if not used. For example if only a road map is used, the summary would consist almost exclusively of road features, and neglect geographical or political considerations. Using different maps of the same type (e.g. two road maps from different publishers) would likely not enhance the description, however may provide value to confirm a suspected map error or withcontroversial caredetail. If a description only contains details from one map, the reader could save time by just looking at the map to get this information. The author should remember that a good article will describe an object above and beyond what is visible in a map.
