Everything You Need to Know About the #30DayMapChallenge (and How to Get Started)
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What is #30DayMapChallenge?
#30DayMapachallenge is an annual challenge that runs every November.
It started in 2019 by Topi Tjukanov on Twitter and quickly moved to other platforms as well - mainly LinkedIn, but also Instagram and Bluesky.
As the name suggests, it’s the challenge to create 30 maps in 30 days.
In fact, it’s usually 30 maps in ~60 days, because the topics are revealed in October.
These are the topics for 2025:
Why to join the #30DayMapChallenge?
I recommend every GIS user participating in the 30-Day Map Challenge at least once.
It’s a fantastic way to grow your skills quickly and it brings other benefits:
Build Your Portfolio
Maps you create during the challenge can become your portfolio.
Even if you’re applying for a job or freelance work months later, these maps demonstrate your skills in data analysis, cartography and storytelling.
They also highlight your ability to take on a project from concept to finished product.
Improve Your Skills
The daily prompts encourage you to try new tools, datasets, and design approaches.
You might experiment with different GIS software, plugins or visualization methods and color schemes you’ve never used before.
Over 30 days, these small experiments compound into significant skill growth.
Gain Visibility
Sharing your work on social media allows you to build a following and connect with other GIS enthusiasts.
Me participating in the challenge in 2023 helped me speed up the growth of my LinkedIn community significantly.
Join a Community
The challenge creates community connections. Seeing how others approach the same prompt can inspire you, give you fresh ideas and motivate you to keep going.
Learn Through Fun
Unlike client work or coursework, the 30-Day Map Challenge is meant to be fun.
Some prompts are creative and give you permission to experiment. This makes learning more engaging.
I wrote an article #30DayMapChallenge - what it’s brought to me and what it’s taken from me right after finishing the challenge.
How difficult is the challenge?
It is as difficult or as easy as you want to make it. See
My 10 tips for a successful challenge
1. Start small
Don’t feel pressured to complete all 30 maps. Aim for 1-5 maps.
You can always create more, but don’t stress yourself. It’s supposed to be fun.
2. Choose topics that excite you
You don’t have to follow every prompt.
Focus on maps that spark your interest and make the process enjoyable.
3. Don’t compare yourself to others
This one is easier said than done. When you look at all the beautiful maps other people are making, you may start doubting yourself. Don’t do it!
The goal of this challenge is not to get/deepen imposter syndrome, but have fun and improve your skills. Bonus is that you’ll grow your network.
Join the challenge even if you are scared. The GIS community is supportive.
Do you still need to compare yourself? Then compare yourself before and after this challenge.
4. Try new tools
This is a perfect time to explore new GIS software, plugins or cartography techniques.
Pro tip: Get free access to ArcGIS tools - register for an ESRI MOOC and you’ll get access to ESRI software for the duration of the MOOC. Each course has different stack of tools being used and you can try them all.
5. Get inspired, don’t copy
Are you stuck and don’t know what to create? Look at others’ maps for ideas.
Who said you have to finish the maps in a specific order?
6. Schedule your map time
Treat it like a mini-project every day. 30-60 minutes daily can lead to amazing results over 30 days.
Consistency is more important than perfection.
7. Make it fun
Don’t be afraid to include playful elements.
Fun maps often get more engagement and make the challenge enjoyable.
8. Use the challenge hashtag
Always post your maps with #30DayMapChallenge. This increases visibility, allows your work to be discovered, and connects you with the community.
9. Use your own hashtag
Create your own hashtag and use it in each post. It will help you find your own posts later or share with other people. Mine was #Karolinas30Maps. Be creative.
10. Document Your Process
Keep notes about data sources, software used, and lessons learned. This makes it easier to replicate your process or include it in your portfolio later.
To help you stay organizes, I created a free 30-Day Map Challenge tracker and planner. It includes:
A Google Sheet to plan and track your maps and progress.
A Google Doc to brainstorm map ideas, data sources and tools for each day.
Download it here to stay organized and maximize your challenge experience:
How does the tracker work?
Where to get inspired?
I’ll be sharing some inspiration ideas soon. Make sure to subscribe not to miss it.
Want to do your own research? Search for #30DayMapChallenge on social media platforms.
Final Thoughts
The 30 Day Map Challenge is a fun experiment that can help you grow abilities. By creating maps every day, you learn, improve, and showcase your skills in a shareable way.
Even if you don’t complete all 30 days, every map contributes to your portfolio, your experience, and your confidence.
So grab your GIS tools, get creative, and join the challenge. And don’t forget to download your free tracker and planner to stay organized.
Spread the word out about this article and share it with your GIS community.
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Hello there Karolína, great post, and given the context, I thought you might enjoy hearing about a different, rather obscured map term:
https://open.substack.com/pub/jordannuttall/p/a-cartographic-view-of-tartaria?r=4f55i2&utm_medium=ios