Maps are a visual representation of an entire area or a part of an area, typically represented on a flat surface. Maps attempt to represent various things like physical features, roads, topography, etc.

Plats are maps, drawn to scale, showing the divisions of a piece of land. Information commonly found in plats are property boundaries, land features, and names of property owners.

Deeds of bargain and sale are the most commonly recorded deeds in which one individual sells property, usually land, but occasionally personal property, to another individual. Such deeds show the names of the grantor and grantee, the residence of both parties, a description of what is being sold, the consideration (or price), the location of the tract of land, the tract's boundaries and any limitations on the property being sold. The deed is signed by the grantor, anyone else having a claim to the property, and by at least 2 witnesses. On presentation to the court, deeds are proved and recorded. Sometimes deeds come with plats. These plats were made in connection with a land transaction, estate settlement or court case.