The average person who claims to be able to "read a map" usually means that they can find, in most instances, their way from place to place. It has been pointed out that the real map-reader is master of the essential art of "seeing things together." That is to say that true map analysis is best accomplished by teaching and studying the various categories of features on the map one at a time. First, discuss with students the categories of features that they will be looking for on the maps they are studying. For example, natural features like rivers water bodies of mountain ranges. Or cultural feature like roads, railroads or cities and towns. Next, have students make separate tracings of each of the categories of features they have identified. Have them pay particular attention to any transportation routes and related facilities shown. These often reveal a great deal about other patterns, distributions and relationships shown on the map. Comment: At first glance the process of making separate tracings of the various categories of features may appear to be too time consuming. However, until students learn to "see" and appreciate the total range of features that exist in an area – and how they relate to one another – they will continue the habit of only looking at a multiple features on a map separately. The exercise alerts them to the reality that all of these features exist together and should be considered that way if they are to become true "map readers" and not merely "route finders."