For which scaled maps is generalization better utilized?

Generalization is a crucial process in cartography, particularly in how geographic information is represented at different scales. Smaller scale maps, which cover larger areas, tend to display a significant amount of geographic information while often lacking the space to show every detail accurately or legibly. At smaller scales, there is a need to simplify and condense the data to communicate the most relevant features effectively. This may involve omitting less important elements, aggregating similar features, or altering the representation of certain objects to enhance legibility and comprehension.

In contrast, larger scale maps, which focus on detailed, localized areas, typically allow for more precision and the inclusion of finer features without as much need for generalization. Thus, generalization is particularly beneficial and necessary at smaller scales, where the abstraction of real-world features helps in producing clear and useful maps for broad navigational or analytical purposes.