How to Build a Comparison Map

Are these two things related?

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Comparison map

The Relationship mapping style allows you to see two data patterns within a single map. When overlapping two topics, we can instantly assess if the two patterns are happening in the same locations. This map uses this technique to compare wind speed and pressure during hurricanes. Hurricanes are strongest when wind speed is high and pressure is low. The Relationship mapping style helps us quickly see where hurricanes are the strongest by comparing these two things. A customized legend helps make the map easier to understand.

Key steps

  • Change the basemap and add data from ArcGIS Living Atlas.

    From the basemap gallery, select the Dark Gray Canvas option. From Living Atlas, add the Major Global Cyclones, 1924–2014 layer to the map. Remove the filter so you can see all hurricanes.

    Explore ArcGIS Living Atlas

  • Map the relationship between wind speed and pressure.

    The map currently shows us where the wind speed is highest. Within "Change Style", click "Add attribute" to also see the pattern for pressure within the map. Scroll down and select the Relationship mapping style to see how the patterns overlap for wind speed and pressure.
    What is a relationship map?

  • Change the color ramp and symbol size to highlight the pattern.

    Within the Relationship mapping style options, click "Symbols" and change the size of the hurricane paths to 1 px, making them easier to see. Then change the color ramp to use a different color grid for the legend. Use a bright option to show well against the dark basemap.
    See more tricks for making maps

  • Adjust the legend to make it clearer

    Emphasize the strongest parts of the hurricane by rotating the focus of the legend to "High values/Low values." Choose meaningful numbers to use as the map breakpoints. Make the map clearer by creating custom labels for the corners of the legend.
    Explore Relationship map style options
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