Rather than containing descriptions, maps have symbols to show where certain things are. Symbols are used so maps don’t have to be covered in writing, as this would make them very confusing. Ordnance Survey uses different shapes, colours and symbols to show all the roads, buildings, rivers and other features of a landscape. Symbols are designed to be simple, often looking like the features they represent. This means things can be quickly and easily recognised as you look at a map. The symbols here are actually used on Ordnance Survey maps.