Abstract: There is a long history of geologic mapping in the Western countries, and geologic mapping is considered as a very impartment work by their geological survey bureaus. In this paper, the authors discussed main characteristics of geologic mapping in the Western countries in terms of development rule, idea and conception, management and strategy，in conclusion, basic idea of geologic mapping in the Western countries remain unchanged in the past 200 years and it′s worthwhile for us to learn some precious experience from them.