Titles and other map elements

Titles should be the largest text on the map. Start between one and a half and two times the size of the largest feature label, and modify for balance. Use the Text tool on the Insert ribbon to add a text box, then format accordingly. In our example map, the largest labels are 14 pt, so your title should be at least 21 pt. Don't be afraid to go larger; the title is an important part of what draws in your audience. Titles can also overlap less important elements, like neighboring areas that provide context but aren't significant to the map message.

Legend elements should be in the same range as the majority of map labels. Most of our labels are in the 10-12pt range, so legend categories should be in that range, as well. The legend title can be slightly larger (say 14 pt), as long as that doesn't make it larger than any map labels.

Scale bars should be discreet; therefore, their labels should be quite small. These labels, and your source and other credits, should be the smallest text on the map, but don't drop beneath 6 pt, or it will become unreadable.