King_Leopold

This is my guide to map making. Specifically, I will discuss spawn based maps, because that’s what I make, but I think most of the advice can be applied to anyone. Also, this guide is not aimed at complete noobs. I am assuming you have knowledge of world editor and can make at least simple triggers. This is a guide to help people who have knowledge of editor sit down and begin project. Also, I'm not done this guide, and I'll add more.

There are many different opinions on mapmaking, and this is just mine. You do not have to agree with me. When making a map your first goal should be making a playable beta at the earliest stage possible. Why? When you are working on a map that no one has seen, it can be hard to stay motivated. Honestly, I think this is why so many maps don’t get finished. Instead show people something. This way you will get feedback, and you know people actually care about your map. Everything does not need to be in the map, but the basic elements should be playable. Other things can always be added or changed in later version.

1. You need a vision of the map. Don’t start by saying ok I’m going to make DOTA 2 or a just make a new copy of an existing map. For one, if you are a relative newcomer to mapping you probably will not be able to make a map that is even as good as the existing map. Start thinking of the general concept and faction. Will it be 4 kingdoms fighting, or 12 races that build from scratch.
2. Do a very general outline of the terrain. For example, make major mountain ridges, add rivers. DO NOT do the details, or you just get bogged down. Just make a barebones outline. At this point it would probably also be worthwhile to place bases around the map. Don’t terrain the bases, just place the base unit. It’s good to do this now, especially if it’s a spawn map, since the units will probably be needed for triggers.
3. Begin working on the triggers that will make the map run. For example, if the map is a spawn based map, make the spawn triggers. Yes I know that for many new mappers triggers are the hardest part, but do not postpone doing them. If you can’t make the system that will make your map function
4. Start making the units for map.
5. Improve the terrain
6. Do the cosmetic work for the map – make a minimap image, game interface work, and so on.

Remember:

Don’t get caught up on any one thing. If something is giving you problems, move on and think on it.

Map-making is not easy and will take up a lot of time.

King Stubby

I think that this guide is pretty good. But remember: Don't think about your map being popular or something, try making it good. If you try too hard to make it popular, you'll do like Leo said and make a DotA clone or something!

Mr. Zero

Not that the guide isn't good, but the format of it is bad.

Most people that reads tutorials does not like to be presented of a big block of text.
Try space it out a bit.

Also maybe some headlines and chapters?

PunWisp

Hmm, not bad but you really only said a couple of things that would teach anybody anything. When you start talking about spawn triggers, be very specific and post images of triggers for example. otherwise people will get confused and this thread wouldnt be much help =P.

Blocksoul[BAWL]

I agree with PunWisp. Anyone who hasnt made even a basic map for thier own amusement wont have any idea on what a trigger is. Especially a spawn trigger! Other than that I liked it and look forward to further posts on map making!