Record source, date and map extent as a small dataset
This schema turns a changing screen into a traceable research record. Populate only visible or otherwise evidenced fields. If the interface shows neither scale nor image date, do not manufacture them for the caption. Record the information as unavailable.
Make the analysed extent reproducible
Online maps change. Roads, labels, provider notices and imagery may look different later. Preserve the permitted screenshot or export promptly and record access. A share link is useful but may not retain the same zoom, layers, filters or past data state.
Coordinates or boundaries are generally more informative for spatial analysis than “map of London.” Record a centre, bounding box, scale and active layers where the product exposes them. A route display also needs origin, destination, transport mode and visible routing setting. Do not add false precision: label a coordinate estimated from the screen as an estimate.
Assign a file ID and retain source and annotated versions separately. The methods section can then point to M-2026-04. A screenshot preserves pixels but cannot on its own reveal all settings that produced them.
Keep provider and third-party credits with the map
Google’s Geo Guidelines state that attribution must not be removed, obscured or cropped out. When third-party data or imagery providers appear, those names must remain as well. Moving the entire credit to a distant figure list does not satisfy Google’s instruction to keep readable attribution close to the content.
Other services have their own rules. OpenStreetMap provides its data under the Open Database License and explains attribution on its copyright and licence page. Check the map tiles or application actually used: a visual style may come from one provider even when the underlying geographic data come from OpenStreetMap contributors.
Preserve the displayed wording and add a scholarly citation. Avoid cropping the bottom edge when rights information sits there. If reduction makes the credit unreadable, select a larger figure or follow the provider’s allowed method for a nearby, legible attribution.
Caption patterns for screenshots and original maps
The third pattern is not merely a screenshot citation. It distinguishes cartographic design, source data, software and analysis. Give every dataset a record when several layers are combined. Software is not automatically the source of the geographic data it displays.
Separate a basemap, data and your interpretation
A screenshot may illustrate location, but it is not automatically an appropriate dataset for measuring distance or area. Explain whether values came from a service measurement tool, downloaded geodata or manual digitisation. Include coordinate reference system, processing and quality limitations when they affect the method.
Circles, arrows and coloured polygons are the author’s claims. Define them in a legend and state selection criteria in the methods section. Do not obscure original attribution or create the impression that the map provider produced your categories.
Maps and plans can qualify as protected scientific or technical representations under section 2 of the German Copyright Act when the statutory conditions are met. Database, contractual, trademark and personality-right issues may also arise. This is general information rather than legal advice. Where the map itself is analysed, use the image-quotation purpose matrix; a citation by itself does not establish permission.
Review before submission and later publication
- Identify the precise service, view and file used.
- Retain all visible map and imagery provider names.
- Do not crop, hide or render attribution illegible.
- Record place, URL, access and available extent parameters.
- Describe author crops, markers, layers and calculations.
- Distinguish geodata, map software and basemap.
- Review current provider conditions and the institution’s citation style.
- Reassess before public or commercial secondary use.
The media citations hub connects other visual-source problems. The foundation guide to academic writing and evidence places maps within the broader citation trail. For captures of other websites and software, the screenshot provenance guide provides the companion framework.