Editing in ArcGIS generally involves modifying geographic data within a map or feature class. Here's how you can edit data using ArcGIS, covering the basics of adding, modifying, and deleting features:
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Open the Map for Editing: Begin by opening the map or project containing the data you want to edit within ArcGIS Pro or ArcGIS Online's Map Viewer.
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Enable Editing:
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ArcGIS Pro: Start an edit session by clicking the "Edit" tab on the ribbon. Then, in the "Manage Edits" group, click "Start Editing." Choose the feature class you want to edit from the list.
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ArcGIS Online (Map Viewer): Open the map in the Map Viewer and click "Edit" on the left-hand panel. Select the editable layer you want to work with. Note that the layer must be configured to allow editing.
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Adding Features:
- ArcGIS Pro: On the "Edit" tab, in the "Features" group, click the "Create Features" button. A pane will appear showing editable feature templates. Choose the template for the type of feature you want to create (e.g., a point, line, or polygon). Use the tools provided (e.g., drawing tools) to add the feature to the map.
- ArcGIS Online (Map Viewer): Select the feature type you want to add from the left panel. Click on the map to add or draw the feature.
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Editing Existing Features:
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ArcGIS Pro: On the "Edit" tab, in the "Tools" group, use the "Edit" tool. Select the feature you want to edit. You can then modify its geometry by reshaping, moving, or resizing it. The "Attributes" window allows you to change the feature's attributes (data values).
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ArcGIS Online (Map Viewer): Select the feature you want to edit on the map. A pop-up window will appear. Click "Edit" in the pop-up. Modify the attributes in the pop-up. You can also edit the feature's location by dragging it on the map (if enabled).
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Deleting Features:
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ArcGIS Pro: Select the feature you want to delete using the "Edit" tool. Press the "Delete" key or click the "Delete" button on the "Edit" tab.
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ArcGIS Online (Map Viewer): Select the feature you want to delete. In the pop-up window, click the "Delete" button.
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Saving Your Edits:
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ArcGIS Pro: On the "Edit" tab, in the "Manage Edits" group, click "Save Edits." Then, click "Stop Editing."
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ArcGIS Online (Map Viewer): Your edits are typically saved automatically. However, it's always good practice to confirm that your changes have been saved. Look for a "Save" or "Done" button/confirmation message.
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Key Considerations:
- Permissions: Ensure you have the necessary permissions to edit the data.
- Data Integrity: Be careful when editing to maintain the accuracy and integrity of the data.
- Snapping: Use snapping options to ensure features connect properly. Snapping helps ensure new features connect precisely to existing ones. In ArcGIS Pro, the Snapping toolbar is located on the Edit tab.
- Topology: Implement topology rules to prevent errors and maintain data consistency (ArcGIS Pro).
- Backups: It's always a good idea to create backups of your data before making significant edits.
By following these steps, you can effectively edit features in ArcGIS. Remember to save your edits regularly to prevent data loss.
