The theory of map space cognition is a basis of cartography.The proposition that "map is a spatial cognitive tool of human being" is a basic proposition of the theory and cognitive map is its core conception.The theory of space cognition focuses on the essential methodology and principles of human being in the process of spatial cognition

so it is very meaningful to various scientists.This paper summarizes the cognitive map formation comprehensively.It proposes a framework of it

and discusses essential elements and supplementary elements of cognitive map.A series of cognitive experiments using paper maps

electronic maps

remote-sensing images and VGEs（virtual geographical environment） of small scale and large scale have been finished.While the scale was fixed

all these kinds of experiment data were in the same place in order to facilitate the comparison of the experiment results.This paper analyzes the results of each kind of experiment data.Conclusions of the analysis are: the cognitive effect of data of small scale from better to worse by order are paper map

electronic map

VGE and remote-sensing image;the cognitive effect of data of big scale from better to worse by order are VGE

remote-sensing image

paper map and electronic map;cognitive map formation based on reading is a process from whole to parts which differs from the formation based on personal experience;and the formations with data of small or large scales are different;the cognitive sketch map based on reading is a "spatial" sketch map which is guided by position and direction;supplementary elements of cognitive map are proved existing.