Chapter 7: Visualizing Geospatial Data¶
Turn numbers into maps — three paths from beginner to developer.
Data Without a Map Is Just a Table
Most of the datasets in this book become far more powerful when mapped. This chapter teaches you three different tools for making maps — choose the one that matches your skill level.
Three Paths to Making Maps¶
| Path | Tool | Skill Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Path A | QGIS | No coding | Desktop GIS, print maps, spatial analysis |
| Path B | Python (GeoPandas + Folium) | Basic Python | Automated analysis, data pipelines, web-ready HTML maps |
| Path C | MapLibre GL (JavaScript) | Basic JS | Interactive web maps for websites and dashboards |
Beginner ──────────────────────────────────────── Advanced
│ │ │
QGIS Python / GeoPandas MapLibre GL JS
(drag-drop) (scripts + Jupyter) (web apps)
Which Path Should You Choose?¶
| If you are... | Use this |
|---|---|
| A policy maker, journalist, or administrator | QGIS — no coding needed |
| A researcher doing statistical + spatial analysis | Python (GeoPandas + Folium) |
| A developer building a website or dashboard | MapLibre GL |
| All of the above | Learn QGIS first, then Python |
Chapter Contents¶
| # | Section | Tool | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | QGIS Basics | QGIS 3.x | 🟢 Beginner |
| 2 | Python: GeoPandas & Folium | Python | 🔵 Intermediate |
| 3 | MapLibre for Web Maps | JavaScript | 🔵 Intermediate |
✏️ Choose Your Path: Exercise 7.0¶
Exercise 7.0 — Which Tool Is Right for You?
Answer these questions to find your ideal visualization tool:
Q1: Do you need to share a map in a print document (PDF/Word)? - Yes → QGIS (best print layout tool)
Q2: Do you need to analyse data AND visualise it (e.g., calculate literacy rates and then map them)? - Yes → Python (GeoPandas + Folium — do everything in one script)
Q3: Do you need a map that users can zoom/pan/click on a website? - Yes → MapLibre GL (embed in any webpage)
Q4: You have no coding experience and just want to see your data on a map quickly? - Yes → QGIS (entirely point-and-click)
All three tools are free, open-source, and work on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Start with: QGIS Basics for Beginners →