Mapping is more formally known as Cartography, an is simply the study and practice of making maps. It is also referred to as the art and science of graphically representing a geographical area, usually on a flat surface such as a map or chart. It may involve the superimposition of political, cultural, or other nongeographical divisions onto the representation of a geographical area. (Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/cartography)