An empty map is an item crafted from paper and a compass, primarily used to create a visual representation of the surrounding terrain. When right-clicked, the empty map transforms into a map, which records explored areas as the player moves. Maps can be expanded using paper in a crafting table and cloned to create duplicates. If crafted without a compass, the map will not have a location marker, but it can be upgraded into a locator map by combining it with a compass. Empty maps are useful for navigation and base planning, especially when placed in item frames to create map walls.