Plot out the features that are identified or need to be pointed out on the map. For a student map, for instance a map of the school, they need key information, such as bathrooms, lockers, a cafeteria and library.
Choose or create icons to identify the features on the map. A symbol that is easily recognizable is useful, as it tells the reader exactly what to look for. An example of this is a picture of a picnic table on a park map, which clearly identifies where the picnic tables are located. For a student map, using icons, such as a book for the library or an apple or a milk container for the lunch room, are good choices. Make the symbol match the feature as closely as possible in a very simple representation.
Make a box on the map that will house the legend. List the symbols in order of importance, or highest incidence. For example if there are six bathroom icons on the map, list this bathroom symbol on your legend first. Make a bullet-type list, with an icon or symbol and the one- or two-word description of that symbol, just to the right of it. Make sure the symbol in the legend matches the symbol on the map. This area is where readers will be able to check the title of the legend symbol so they know what feature they are looking at on the map.
Include a compass direction or distance meter to relate the legend items to the scale of the map itself. For instance you can make a measurement line and list it as "1 inch equals 10 feet" so the person using the map can relate the size of the map to the actual size of the location. Another common legend addition is the compass, used to orient the direction of the map and its features to the reader's present location.