Reading and Using Maps

Why are road maps so difficult to fold

The problem lies with the multitude of folds required to return the map to its original, folded shape. The easiest way to fold a road map is to study the creases and to fold the map in the order that the creases will allow. But once you’ve made a mistake, the folds have lost their tell-tale instructions. To fold a road map, begin by folding it accordion style, making sure that the “front” and “back” of the folded design appear on top. Then, once the entire map is folded accordion style, fold the remaining slim, long, folded paper into three sections. And, voilà, your road map is folded!

