A visual representation of the contiguous United States, Alaska, and Hawaii, delineated by state boundaries and featuring standard postal abbreviations for each state, designed for easy printing and reference. An example is a document displaying the outline of California with the abbreviation “CA” clearly marked within its borders.
These cartographic tools serve as valuable educational aids for geography students, quick references for logistical planning in transportation and delivery services, and practical resources for individuals needing to identify states rapidly. Historically, the need for concise identification in correspondence and record-keeping spurred the adoption of standardized abbreviations, making their inclusion on readily available maps essential.
The following sections will delve into the various formats and uses of such maps, examine the different types of abbreviations employed, and outline the criteria for selecting an appropriate map for specific needs.