What feature does red indicate on a map?

Red on a map typically indicates populated areas, making this the correct interpretation. Maps utilize color coding to convey specific types of information visually, and red is traditionally reserved for urban features such as cities, towns, and other inhabited regions.

In many standard topographic or road maps, this convention helps quickly identify areas of human development at a glance. For example, it can highlight residential, commercial, and industrial areas, providing essential information for navigation or planning.

Understanding the use of color on maps is fundamental in cartography, enabling users to interpret them effectively. Populated areas portrayed in red help obscured other map features, providing clarity on where human activity is concentrated.