What is a map defined as?

A map is defined as a graphic representation of a portion of the earth's surface. This definition captures the essential purpose of a map, which is to visually display geographical features, boundaries, and other important landmarks in a way that makes them easier to understand and navigate. Maps can include a variety of information such as terrain, roads, bodies of water, and urban developments, and they serve as crucial tools in fields ranging from military operations to urban planning.

The clarity of this answer emphasizes the practical application of maps in real-world scenarios, including navigation and location identification. Options that mention chronological records, detailed reports, or artistic representations do not align with the primary purpose of a map, which is to visually portray geographical data rather than provide a narrative, detailed written content, or artistic interpretation.