Creating a map makes it easy to share custom location information with others.
Google's online map utility works in a Web browser, and provides a good way for users to find locations, directions and place-specific information. If the built in features don't provide all the functionality you want, the tool also has a custom mapping function for making new maps that save to your Google account. The process is free, and works with the existing Google Maps website and map content.
Instructions
1. Open a Web browser and go to the Google Maps website. Click the "Sign in" button to log in using an existing Google account, or create a new one. Google recommends using Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla FireFox or Apple Safari for optimal map viewing.
2. Click the "My Maps" link in the left frame. Click the "Get started" button. Enter a name for your new map in the "Title" box, then add a description if desired. Click the "Public" radio button to make the map accessible to everyone, or click "Unlisted" to control who views the map.
3. Click the marker icon in the map viewing pane. Click on a specific location on the map to add a new marker. Enter a title and description for the marker and click "OK" to place it. You can switch between text editing, rich text and HTML using the three tabs above the description box.
4. Click the line drop-down icon to draw new indicators on the map. Use the "Draw a line" tool to make straight lines connecting points. Use the "Draw a line along roads" option to trace existing roadways when creating directions. Click on "Draw a shape" to highlight a specific region.
5. Click once to begin creating a line or shape. Single-click again to add a new component to the object. Double click to finish adding to the object. A prompt will appear to add a name and description to the new object.
6. Click the hand icon to edit existing map items. Click an object once to edit its name and description. Click and drag a marker, line edge or shape boundary to move its location.
7. Click "Save" then "Done" in the left frame to exit editing. The map will store in the "My Maps" section for later editing, access and sharing.
