A map is a reflection of earth. The characteristic of a topographic map is that to show the shape of the earth surface by contour lines. Contour lines make it possible to measure the height of mountain or hilly areas, steepness of slope ground level difference etc.
A topographic map shows not only contours. The map includes exixting structures, trees, roads, drains, electric post, manholes and culverts etc and all other existing datas. With all these details you can see the reflection of earth on a sheet of paper.