Each map  displays its own toolbar. To see what function a tool performs, place your mouse cursor over the tool (while a map is open) to display a brief definition of that tool's function. When a tool is clicked, the tool function is displayed in the bottom left corner of the map. If a tool in the toolbar appears with a red box around it,  it is the active tool and ready to be used on the map.  For a description of each tool click here.

The map display is where all layers are displayed. Most tools interact directly with the map display by clicking on it after a tool has been selected. Some tools will display results from their actions directly on the map display, such as the measure tool, and the buffer tool. 

The Layer List displays all layers available in the current map. Layers can be made visible or invisible or active or inactive by checking the appropriate spot next to the theme. In the example at the left, all layers are visible, but only the Railroads layer is active. Because it is active, the Railroads layer can be used for selection and query purposes. When layers are turned on or off, or when they are made active or inactive, the map must be updated. Clicking on Refresh Map at the bottom of the Layer List will update the map with your changes.

The Legend indicates how each layer is symbolized in the current map. You may toggle between the Layer List and Legend by clicking on the Toggle Legend tool .

Some maps may display an Overview Map. The Overview Map will have a red rectangle that shows the extent of the current map in relation to the full map extent. You may click on the Overview Map to automatically pan the main map to that location. The Overview Map may be turned on and off by clicking on the Toggle Overview Map tool .