> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://nishanthkp.gitbook.io/tableu/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://nishanthkp.gitbook.io/tableu/chapter-1/density-maps-exercise-1.md).
# Density Maps Exercise 1
Density maps show the spread and concentration of values within a geographic area. Instead of individual points or symbols, the marks blend together, showing greater intensity in areas with a high concentration. You can control the **Color**, **Size**, and **Intensity**.
Let’s say you want to understand the geographic concentration of orders. You might create a density map using the following steps:
1. Navigate to the **Density of Orders** sheet.
2. Double-click on the `Postal Code` field in the **Data** pane. Just as before, Tableau automatically creates a symbol map geographic visualization using the `Latitude (generated)`, `Longitude (generated)`, and `State` fields.
3. Using the drop-down menu on the **Marks** card, change the mark type to **Density**. The individual circles now blend together showing concentrations:
Figure 1.23: A density map showing concentration by postal code
Try experimenting with the **Color** and **Size** options. Clicking on **Color**, for example, reveals some options specific to the **Density** mark type:
Figure 1.24: Options for adjusting the Color, Intensity, Opacity, and Effects for Density marks
Several color palettes are available that work well for density marks (the default ones work well with light color backgrounds, but there are others designed to work with dark color backgrounds). The **Intensity** slider allows you to determine how intensely the marks should be drawn based on concentrations. The **Opacity** slider lets you decide how transparent the marks should be.
