tilastokartoista

Tilastokartat, known in English as statistical maps or thematic maps, are cartographic representations that display statistical data geographically. They are used to visualize the distribution, patterns, and relationships of quantitative information across a specific area. Instead of showing just geographical features like rivers or borders, tilastokartat overlay statistical values onto these features or use them as a basis for classification.

The purpose of a tilastokartta is to make complex data more understandable and accessible by leveraging the human eye's ability to perceive spatial patterns. Common types include choropleth maps, where areas are shaded or patterned according to a statistical variable; dot density maps, which use dots to represent the frequency of a phenomenon; and proportional symbol maps, where symbols of varying sizes are placed at specific locations to indicate magnitude. Cartograms, a less common but related type, distort the area of regions based on their statistical values rather than their actual geographic size.

These maps are valuable tools in various fields, including demography, economics, public health, and environmental science. They help researchers and the public identify trends, outliers, and correlations that might not be apparent in tables or raw data. The effectiveness of a tilastokartta depends on careful selection of data, appropriate classification methods, and clear visual encoding to avoid misinterpretation.