Abstract: The general maps are divided into two types——the topographic map and the general geographic map.In this paper we have mainly discussed about the latter.The general geographic maps will d velop in the following aspects:1.To enhance the geographic characteristics of the general geographic map.The imageries of landsat and the large comprehensive or regional geographical investigations would increase the geographical features of these maps.2.To reform the process for the general geographic mapping.we can try to transfer the contents of the landsat imageries onto the general geographic maps directly.3.To make applications of computers and automatic mapping.In the near future,we can establish data banks and use the computers for collecting and compiling the map information.4.To make better use of the general geographic map as an information communication system.This is a new development for the general geographic map.How to show the regional features? To study the internal relationship of the regional features and to show their distribution rules on the general geographic maps are the chief tasks of our geographic cartographers.