This is how most people see and understand a map today; mostly online, and on a mobile device. Also, today, the idea of a map is just a portion of what we considered a map in the past. Before we used to have to unfold a very large piece of paper, have a broad view, and then fold/focus in the area we needed to. Today, is mostly a tool to show directions from Point A to point B
Chunking: The map contains a lot of information in a easy-to-ready format. It has to condense several levels of information including street names, geography, possible routes, etc. into one view.
Consistency This is key for a map. Similar objects or features must appear in a dependable way as to allow the user to navigate almost instinctively without having to second-guess the meaning of use of a feature.
Efficiency: The map should let you accomplish your goals in a quick view without spending too much time and maximizing it use.
Principle of Least Astonishment People have a preconceived notion of what a map should do and how; it is a tool not to challenge but to aid the userrs
Clarity: This is very challenging for a map since it has to cover a lot of information, but a strategy that must be accomplished to make a successful map. A map should always communicate clearly providing the information they need, with no additional options.