What is meant by geocoding?

Geocoding refers to the process of converting a location description, such as an address or place name, into geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) that correspond to a specific location on the Earth's surface. This transformation is essential in geographic information systems (GIS) because it allows users to analyze and visualize data related to specific geographical points.

When a user inputs an address into a geocoding service, the system processes that description and matches it against a database to find the corresponding geographic coordinates. This is crucial for tasks such as mapping, spatial analysis, and routing.

Understanding the other options provides clarity: One option refers to transforming a location into descriptive attributes, which pertains more to assigning characteristics to points rather than locating them. Another speaks to locating features through spatial analysis, focusing on analysis rather than the direct conversion of descriptions to coordinates. Lastly, finding a location using a map involves visual interpretation, which is different from the systematic and automated nature of geocoding.