A map projection is defined as "a geometric transformation of the spherical or ellipsoidal surface of the earth onto a flat map surface." Although many things have been written about these projections, people continue to consider this topic to be one of the most controversial aspects of the use of maps. Many professionals admit that they do not fully understand map projections. Unfortunately, this lack can have consequences. First, it hinders their ability to understand international relations in global society. Second, it can become easy prey for politicians, advertisers and others who don't understand or use map projections in deceptive ways. There are an infinite number of map projections, and each is best suited for a particular purpose. Then the question arises: how to distinguish one from the other. Two approaches are commonly used to classify projections into different families based on their geometric distortion properties, relating to shape, area and direction. Also examining the nature of the surface that is used to make the projection, be it a cone, a plane or a cylinder. These two approaches go hand in hand with what spatial properties are preserved, including the pattern and level of distortion. The two projections that will be compared in this essay will be a cylindrical (Mercator) projection and a conic (Lambers equal area) projection. ). The first projection that will be analyzed will be the cylindrical projection, specifically dealing with the Mercator projection. The most common to project accurately is the equatrial zone, and often the only truly useful aspect of all cylindrical projections. All coordinate lines are straight parallels. Cross meridians are always at right angles......center of the sheet......r British Columbia and is also used by the United States Geological Survey or USGS and the United States Census Bureau. Coordinates from a spherical datum can be transformed into an equal-area Albers conic projection with coordinates derived from the following formulas: where λ is the longitude, λ0 is the reference longitude, φ is the latitude, φ0 is the reference latitude, and φ1 and φ2 are the standard parallels. Comparing equal-area Mercator projections and Albers projections is a bit like comparing apples to oranges. They are both good at describing a region of the earth; however neither is suitable for viewing the entire globe. The problem of modern society is that the mental map, thanks to uneducated citizens, is Mercator's. So many people have an imperfect perception of the mapped world. We hope that with a more informed public the situation can change for the better.