Since a map represents earth's surface in a small scale, it cannot depict all the objects present on the surface of earth. However, it is essential to show the important details and weed out the trivials.

The process involved in selecting the essential details from the multitude of topographical objects and representing them in a specified manner is called ‘generalisation'. It serves the purpose of facilitating the production of a legible homogenous map.

Moreover, when the representation of an important object / feature is done by its conventional sign, it occupies more space on the map sheet than what the scale permits. This space occupied by the conventional sign may require cutting down of some other details known as “generalisation of details” on maps. A topographical map or even a large scale engineering survey map, therefore may not contain all the details as actually present on the surface of the earth, as its scale does not permit the same.

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