A geological map is a medium of communication that uses graphic symbols to represent spatial relationships among geographical and geological feautures. Lines, points, symbols, and texture markings are used to separate various classes of information. But the interpretation of geological maps goes beyond identifying the individual items displayed on the map. A connection must be made between what is perceived on the map and other knowledge. The interpretation of geological maps is basically an attempt to visualize and understand the complex shapes of rock units in the subsurface. A thorough understanding of the variety of geological structures is particularly important, because it helps to determine the nature of subsurface structures from geological maps. Structural geology, therefore, is a major cornerstone of the art of geological map interpretation. <...>

As intimated by the book’s title, the purpose of the book is to
(a) Outline the principles of both structural geology and rock engineering (the latter via engineering rock mechanics) and (b) to explain with illustrative examples why the synthesis of the two  subjects is mutually beneficial.
2 Structural Geology and Rock Engineering The McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific and Technical Terms defines structural geology as, “The branch of geology concerned with the form, arrangement and internal structure of the rocks” and rock mechanics as, “Application of the principles of mechanics and geology to quantify the response of rock when it is acted upon by environmental forces, particularly when human-induced factors alter the original ambient forces” <...>

Techniques of geologicmapping and geologicmap creation have changed significantly from traditional paper-based methods. Geologic mapping and data collection in the field is now primarily facilitated by mobile devices and dedicated geologic mapping software. Geologic map production has become a fully integrated process, importing digital data from the field and making use of cartographic software, such as ArcGIS and Adobe Illustrator, to create interactive geologic map products.