All maps are not the same so it becomes necessary every time a different map is used to examine themarginal information carefully. Legendis one of important map requisitions which assist a map reader to interpret military maps. The map's legend contains the symbols most commonly used in a particular series or on that specific topographic map sheet.
Sheet numbers are based on an arbitrary system that makes possible the ready orientation of maps of relevant scales. It is used as a reference number to link operations, situation or other specific maps to overlays, operations orders, and plans.
Elevation guide provides the map reader with a means of rapid recognition of major land forms. This is normally found in the lower right margin.
In recent edition maps, there is a note indicating the conversion of azimuthsfrom grid to magneticand from magnetic to grid next to the declination diagram. This is located in the lower margin of large-scale maps and indicates the angular relationships of TN, GN, and MN.
Bar scales are rulers used to convert map distance to ground distance. Maps have three or more bar scales, each in a different unit of measure.
Contour intervalnote states the vertical distance between adjacent contour lines and when supplementary contours are used, the interval is indicated.