在編圖作業過程中，簡化是一項樞爲重要的工作，它主要是把複雜的編圖資料，先加以單純化，選取需求的資料，刪除多餘的部份，以維持地圖的易讀性，更可突顯其主題。簡化的工作包括資料的評估、選取與強調等三項過程。資料的評估是分析資料的可靠度，並考慮主題所需，以作爲選擇的依據。資料的選取包括選取的資料數目與選取的標凖兩項，這兩項必須彼此配合。資料的強調是簡化作業最終，也是最重要的工作，因其控制了資料的表現形態，保持地圖的均衡與美觀。以往地圖的簡化均由編圖人員爲之，但因作業凖則與原則未明確規定，故主觀性較強，編圍之差異性亦大，此不利於製圖自動化之推行。本文探討簡化之原理與作業步驟，目的即在於提高簡化的客觀性，俾真實而一致的表現地理環境，並配合電腦製圖的應用發展。

Generalization is the most important among the procedures of map compilation. Its function mainly to maintain the legibility of maps and made the subject prominently by simplifying, seleciting and canceling the complicated map information. Generalization has three main procedures: EVALUATION, SELECTION and EMPHASIS. Evaluation is the first procedure, that includes analyzing the reliability of map information, thus be the criteria of selection in accordance with the map subject. Selection of information includes number of selecting and determining the criteria, these two items should be consistent with each other. Emphasis is the final and most important procedure during the operations of generalization, for it controls the type of data display, and maintains the balance and beauty of maps. Previously, the operations of map generalization down by compilers, the disparity and subjectivity are prominent for the absence of precise rules and precepts; furthermore, this has preventing the principles of automation of map-making. This paper discussed the principles of generalization and its procedures; the aim is to promote the objectivity during operation, let the map display geographical environment faithfully and consistently, besides to match the development and application of computerized map-making.