Creating Choropleth maps with {ggplot2}

A choropleth map is a powerful thematic map where geographic regions are shaded or patterned based on the value of a specific variable. These maps are widely used in epidemiology, helping to visualize indicators such as disease prevalence or mortality rates across different regions. By displaying spatial patterns effectively, choropleth maps enhance data-driven decision-making.

Key Skills Acquired

Through this course, I have gained expertise in:

1. Choropleth Maps with `{ggplot2}

• Master the ggplot() and geom_sf() functions for creating visually appealing maps.

• Learn how to customize map aesthetics, including colors, labels, and legends.

2. Data Matching with Geographic Polygons

• Acquiring and integrating boundary data with disease-related datasets.

• Merging spatial and statistical data at different administrative levels.

3. Color Scaling Techniques

• Implement color scales for both continuous and discrete data types.

• Choose appropriate color palettes to effectively communicate data trends and patterns.

4. Faceting for Map Visualization

• Use facet_wrap() and facet_grid() to create small multiple maps.

• Compare multiple variables or time periods side by side for deeper insights.

By mastering these techniques, I can now create insightful, data-driven maps that reveal meaningful geographic trends.

For a detailed walkthrough and examples, please visit this site.