I am really close to getting some really neat new software called Maplex installed on my PC to aid in cartography. It is an add-on to ArcEditor and will make labeling easier and more automated. Labeling is one of the most time consuming things involved in creating a good map.

This page has three Flash animations you can click on to see the interface of the software and get a little insight into how maps are constructed. Each demo is only a couple minutes long. There is a narrator talking you through it, so make sure you have your sound on.