Lab 5: Choropleth Mapping

This week, we explored choropleth mapping and revisited classification concepts to create a map on wine consumption in European countries. We used data from Euro Stat to present population density per square kilometer and data from the Wine Institute on wine consumption in liters per capita in European countries.

For my map, I chose a sequential color scheme for the population density data because the data is unipolar and has no natural dividing points. The sequential color schemes progresses from light blue to dark blue and is accessible to the color vision impaired viewers. 

For the wine consumption data, I chose a graduated symbols to show the ranges of consumption throughout the area represented by red circles. 

The inset map was created to help clear up some of the clutter in that area of the map. It was difficult to see all the country names and differentiate which wine consumption symbol belonged to which country. I removed all of the name and wine consumption data on the main map and made the inset map to enlarge the area. 

I used my new skills in converting labels to annotations to move the country labels out of the way so they did not overlap with the wine consumption symbols. I also learned how to exclude data for the countries whose wine consumption was nonexistent so they were not included which also helped clear up some space.