📄 Page
1
(This page has no text content)
📄 Page
2
CREDITS Authorship Franz Pucha-Cofrep, Andreas Fries This manual is a modification or adaptation of the book: Fundamentals of GIS: Applications with ArcGIS. Cover Franz Pucha-Cofrep Publication Year: 2025 How to cite? Pucha-Cofrep, F., & Fries, A. (2025). ArcGIS Pro Manual. Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International This is a Free Culture License! Discover the potential of GIS at www.giscrack.com
📄 Page
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Introduction 2. Geographic Terms 3. Data Models 3.1. Vector Model 3.2. Raster Model 4. Coordinate Systems 5. First Steps in ArcGIS Pro 5.1. Create a "New Project" 5.2. Setting Units 5.3. Creating a New Map 5.4. The Ribbon and Panels 6. Georeferencing an Image 6.1. Adding an Un-georeferenced Image or Any Layer 6.2. Selecting the Coordinate System of an Ungeoreferenced Image. 6.3. Georeferencing an Image with Control Points 6.4. Georeferencing an Image Without Control Points 7. Creating and Editing Vector Entities 7.1. Creation of Feature Class (Shapefiles) 7.2. Editing Vector Layers (Shapefiles) 7.3. Editing Points 7.4. Editing Lines 7.5. Editing Polygons 8. Table Management 8.1. Creating new Fields in Tables 8.2. Entering Information into Table Fields 8.3. Calculating Area, Perimeter, and Length 8.4. Calculating XY Coordinates 8.5. Operations 9. Design and Publication
📄 Page
4
9.1. Point, Line, and Polygon Symbology 9.2. Labels 9.2.1. Simple Labels 9.2.2. Combined Labels 9.2.3. Labels of a Specific Category 9.3. Giving a 3D Effect to the Map (Optional) 9.4. General Structure of a Map 9.5. Design of a "Layout" 9.5.1. Title (1) 9.5.2. Map Body (2) 9.5.3. Graticules (3) 9.5.4. North Arrow (4) 9.5.5. Location Map (5) 9.5.6. Legend (6) 9.5.7. Numerical Scale (7) 9.5.8. Graphic scale (8) 9.5.9. Geodetic Reference Parameters (9) 9.5.10. Card Area or Boxes (10) 9.6. Exporting and Printing a Map 10. Geoprocessing tools 10.1. Areas of influence (Buffer) 10.2. Intersections (Intersect) 10.3. Clippings (Clip) 10.4. Merge 10.5. Dissolve 10.6. Define Projection to a Layer 10.7. Project a Layer to Another Coordinate System 11. Spatial Analysis 11.1. Interpolations 11.1.1. Importing a Table of XY Coordinates (Taken with a GPS) 11.1.2. Interpolating Data from a Table with Kriging (IDW, Spline) 11.2. Digital Elevation Models (DEM) 11.3. Creation of slope maps slope maps 11.4. Reclassifications
📄 Page
5
11.5. Generation of Contours (Contour Lines) 11.6. Hillshade Map 11.7. Viewshed 11.8. Map Algebra 11.9. Delineation of a Watershed 11.10. Geoprocessing Automation with "ModelBuilder" 11.11. Topographic Profiles 12. Image Analysis 12.1. Adding a Satellite Image from "Basemap" 12.2. Downloading Landsat Images 12.3. Download images Sentinel 2 12.4. Combining Satellite Image Bands 12.5. Adding a Multispectral Image 12.6. Calculating NDVI 13. Graphics 13.1. Creating a Histogram 13.2. Charts from Tables 13.3. Spectral Signature Charts 14. 3D View 15. Geodatabases 15.1. Creating a Geodatabase 15.2. Creating and Configuring Domains 15.3. Create and Manage a "Feature Dataset" 15.4. Creating and Managing "Feature Class" (Points, Lines, and Polygons) 15.5. Importing Information from a "Shapefile" to a "Feature Class" 15.6. Configuring Tables Based on Domains 16. Topology 16.1. Defining Topological Rules 16.2. Identification and Correction of Errors 16.3. Validation 17. Frequently Asked Questions 18. References
📄 Page
6
1. INTRODUCTION The use of geographic information in decision-making is a fundamental for everyday life that often goes unnoticed. From selecting the most efficient route to work, to finding the address of a store via a smartphone, people constantly make decisions based on the analysis of geographic information, often without realizing it. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are valuable tools that allow for analyzing spatial data more efficiently and accurately. Using GIS, it is possible to visualize geographic data, identify patterns and trends, and make informed decisions in various contexts, including urban planning, natural resource management, traffic management, and much more. In summary, GIS is an essential tool for improving the efficiency and accuracy of decision-making based on geographic information. According to López Trigal (2015), a GIS is an integrated system composed of hardware, software, data, and users that allows for capture, storage, manage and analyze digital information, besides the creation of graphics and maps, including the representation of alphanumeric data. Burrough (1986) defines GIS as a computerized model of geographic reality, designed to meet specific information needs, allowing for the creation, sharing, and application of useful information based on data and maps. For many decades, GIS has been used in issues related to land and natural resource management, environment, military coordination, and in contexts related to Earth sciences, such as geography and geology. Recently, its
📄 Page
7
potential use has also been explored in unprecedented fields as in Human and Social Sciences research (Del Bosque, Fernández Freire, Martín-Forero Morente, & Pérez Asensio, 2012). ArcGIS Pro is ESRI's flagship application, encompassing classic desktop GIS functionality. ArcGIS Pro includes a set of tools that enable the visualization and management of geographic information, and has an extensible architecture, involving new functionalities. These extensions include the Spatial Analyst, 3D Analyst, and the well-known Geostatistical Analyst. The objective of this technical manual is to introduce basic GIS concepts through the exploration of case studies that cover the entire map creation process. Although ArcGIS Pro has a wealth of tools, it is important to note that not all of them can be covered exhaustively. Instead, the purpose of this document is to help users become familiar with the general operation of the program and to motivate them to continue learning independently. As the manual progresses, it is expected that users will acquire and improve skills, analyzing geographic information more efficiently to create high-quality maps. This document is a useful tool for those interested in developing their GIS skills and for those who wish to enhance their existing abilities. The document is designed for widespread and accessible distribution. The reader is authorized to copy, remix, transform, or redistribute part or all of the material in any medium or format for non-commercial purposes, provided that the original source of the work is adequately cited. Without further delay, the ArcGIS Pro Manual is presented, with the expectation that it will be highly beneficial to the
📄 Page
8
reader. This manual was developed using ArcGIS Pro 3.3/3.4. Some parts were optimized with ChatGPT. The exercises are available at https://github.com/franzpc/arcpro_en
📄 Page
9
2. GEOGRAPHIC TERMS Geographic information in digital formats needs the standardization of criteria and the inclusion of minimum parameters to ensure its quality. This standardization enables interoperability among users, optimizing the use and exchange of information. It also facilitates the reuse and democratization of this information (SENPLADES, 2013). Below is a glossary of the most relevant geographic terms that will be utilized throughout this document: Band: Each section of the electromagnetic spectrum classifies radiation into different wavelengths, which are captured by sensors. Radiation data is typically organized as raster files and contains numerical values collected for each defined band (Moreno, 2008). Cartographic projection: This geometric operation enables the representation of the curved surface of the Earth (three-dimensional) to a flat surface (two- dimensional). This procedure transforms the real angular coordinates of geographic objects into planar coordinates, thus enabling their cartographic representation in two dimensions (Lopez L., 2015). Coordinate: The value of a position on the Earth's surface defines the location of any point on it, allowing for the determination of the distance between any two points. Imaginary lines, perpendicular to each other and called parallels and meridians, are used to obtain these values. Their
📄 Page
10
intersection defines the position of a point in the coordinate system (López L., 2015). Datum: A parameter or set of parameters that defines position (A.282). Different coordinate systems vary in their origin, scale, and orientation [ISO 19111:2007]. Digital Elevation Model (DEM): A digital elevation model, or DEM, represents the height of the terrain above sea level in a particular area. It is a numerical data structure that depicts the spatial distribution of the land surface's altitude (Mancebo et al., 2008). Ellipsoid: A surface formed by rotation around a principal axis, as the movement of the Earth. Note: The international definition specifies that ellipsoids are always oblong, meaning the axis of rotation is always the minor axis [ISO 19111:2007]. Geopositioning: The measurement of an object's geographic position using a Global Positioning System (GPS) [ISO/TS 19130:2010]. Georeferencing: The operation of assigning geographic coordinates to any information (usually a layer) that lacks in it. It is commonly applied to represent accurately the position of Earth images or associated events [Moreno, 2008]. Image: A raster-type layer, whose attribute values are distributed in grids, representing a physical parameter in numerical form [ISO 19115-2:2009]. Latitude, represented by the symbol (φ): Latitude is the angle measured from the Earth´s center between the Equator and a specific point on an ellipsoid. Circles of equal latitude form complete circles around the Earth's surface. Latitude is measured from the Equator (0°) to the poles (90°), with positive values in the Northern Hemisphere (0° to 90°) and negative values in the Southern Hemisphere (0° to -90°) (Del Bosque et al., 2012).
📄 Page
11
Layer: A basic unit of geographic information according to a map in raster (grids) or vector (points, lines, or polygons) format from a server [ISO 19128:2005]. Conceptually, a layer is a portion of geographic space in a specific area, equivalent to an element of the map legend, like temperature or atmospheric pressure [SENPLADES, 2013]. Legend: The application of a classification to a specific area (A.52) using a defined mapping scale and a specific dataset [ISO 19144-1:2009]. Longitude, represented by the symbol (λ): Longitude is the angle measured from the Earth´s center between the zero meridian and a specified point on an ellipsoid. Points on the Earth's surface with equal longitude form semicircles from the North Pole to the South Pole, crossing the parallels of each latitude perpendicularly (Del Bosque et al. 2012). The zero meridian passes through Greenwich, United Kingdom (0°), from which the longitude is measured up to 180° westward (positive) and eastward (negative). Remote Sensing: Broadly defined, remote sensing is the acquisition of information about an object from a distance, without physical contact between the object and the observing system, such as radar or satellite images (Sobrino, 2000). Scale: The relationship between the magnitudes of elements represented on a map compared to their real values. This involves the reduction of the real- world elements to significantly smaller maps or documents. Scale representation on a map can be graphical or numerical [López L., 2015]. Slope: The ratio of change in elevation relative to distance or the length of the curve [ISO 19133:2005]. Vertical Datum: A parameter defining the height or depth of a point above or below sea level. Note:
📄 Page
12
Geodetic heights are related to a three-dimensional ellipsoidal coordinate system referenced to a geodetic datum [ISO 19111:2007].
📄 Page
13
3. DATA MODELS It might seem obvious, but before working with GIS data, it is essential that these data are in a digital format. Almost all features found on the Earth's surface can be encoded for computer processing. Depending on the type of information, one may choose a specific data model or another option. What is less obvious is the method of representing the real world in a digital medium (ESRI, 2010). Despite the diversity of geographic information, there are two basic models for simplifying and modeling space within a computer system: (i) the vector model, which uses points, lines, or polygons, and is typically employed for discrete geographic phenomena (such as roads, urban areas, vegetation cover, etc.); and (ii) the raster model, which utilizes grids or pixels, and is generally used for continuous phenomena (like temperature and precipitation). Both models are complementary and coexist within GIS, as they are suitable for studying specific types of information (Del Bosque et al., 2012).
📄 Page
14
3.1. Vector Model The vector data model operates on the principle that the Earth's surface consists of discrete objects, such as trees, rivers, and lagoons (ESRI, 2010). Unlike models that use basic units to segment an area, the vector model captures the variability and characteristics of the terrain through geometric entities. Each of these entities is defined by constant characteristics, and their shapes or contours are explicitly encoded. This model represents geographic space using geometric primitives like points, lines, or polygons to depict key elements of that space (Olaya, 2020). Employing these primitives allows for the creation of maps rich in detail and clarity and permits an accurate representation of geographic objects.
📄 Page
15
3.2. Raster Model In the raster data model, the structure is based on a matrix of cells (grids or pixels) arranged in rows and columns. Each cell within this matrix holds information about specific variables, such as precipitation, temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, or different wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum. In this model, the cells are not individually positioned in space; instead, the values of each cell correspond to a specific element within the matrix. This matrix forms a fixed and regular structure, including the coordinate of each cell, for what its spatial location must be established. However, the raster model references the values of the elements depicted in the matrix rather than their distinct spatial location (Olaya, 2020).
📄 Page
16
4. COORDINATE SYSTEMS Maps, a vital tool for representing the Earth's surface and its features, have been utilized since ancient times. In GIS, coordinate systems are crucial for precisely locating identified features. However, these features can be recorded in various coordinate systems, depending on the methods used to collect the geographic information. Consequently, understanding key terms like projection, ellipsoid, geoid, and datum is essential for effectively working with GIS. These key terms or concepts dictate how the Earth's surface is represented, as well as its spatial orientation. Understanding these concepts, one can achieve a more accurate and detailed depiction of the Earth's surface and its features on a map. The projection process aims to represent the Earth's curved surface on a flat plane. This inevitably leads to the deformation of geographical aspects like contours, area, distance, and direction. Thus, selecting an appropriate projection is a critical decision in map-making, as each type is better suited for specific geographical regions. Map projections are categorized into three types: conformal, equivalent, and equidistant. Conformal projections preserve angles between meridians and parallels but may distort contours. Equivalent projections maintain accurate area relationships, while equidistant projections preserve distances but can alter contours. Each category of projection has distinct applications and is essential for
📄 Page
17
producing accurate and reliable maps (Del Bosque et al., 2012). The ellipsoid is a geometric figure that most closely approximates the Earth's surface, providing a precise but idealized representation. In general, an ellipsoid is a three- dimensional figure formed by rotating a two-dimensional oval along its major or minor axis. This rotation creates a geometric figure known as a spheroid (ESRI, 2015). After establishing this theoretical model for the Earth's surface, the defining parameters for the sphere must be determined, which involves its radiuses, for what the length of both radiuses, the minor and major axes, are needed (Olaya, 2020). The geoid represents the equipotential surface of the Earth's gravitational field, closely aligning with the mean sea level. This surface is perpendicular to the force of gravity at every point. However, it is important to note that the geoid's shape is irregular, influenced by the uneven distribution of landmass (ESRI, 2015). Figure 1. Relationship between the geoid, the topographic surface, and the ellipsoid adjustment. Image credit: (Peter, 1994). The datum specifies the coordinate system of a spheroid based on a series of ground control points, ensuring the accuracy of a point's location within the intended spatial extent (ESRI, 2011b). Although generated the spheroid, the datum may contain inaccuracies, because the rotating ellipse (spheroid) creates a completely smooth surface,
📄 Page
18
which does not fully represent reality. Hence, choosing a local datum that accounts for local variations is crucial (ESRI, 2015). To simplify, projection is the method of representing the Earth's surface on a plane, while the datum is the set of parameters used in this representation. To illustrate geographic information, there are two main methods: (i) using a geographic coordinate system, or (ii) using a projected coordinate system. The geographic coordinate system describes a location on a sphere (spheroid) using latitude and longitude parameters, while the projected coordinate system, based on a plane, utilizes "X" and "Y" coordinates (Hillier, 2011). In South America, the most commonly used coordinate systems are WGS84, PSAD56, and SIRGAS. In North America, the most commonly used coordinate systems are the North American Datum of 1983 (NAD83) and the World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS1984). In Europe, various coordinate systems are used, including Lambert-93 in France, the Irish Grid Reference System in Ireland, Stelsel van de Rijksdriehoeksmeting (RD) in the Netherlands, LV95 in Switzerland, and the British National Grid in the United Kingdom. It is important to recognize that some coordinate systems have specific advantages, which can facilitate the quick measurement of planar distances and surface areas.
📄 Page
19
5. FIRST STEPS IN ARCGIS PRO ArcGIS Pro, ESRI's flagship application, is designed to run on 64-bit computers. This software enables to resolve real geographic problems through a sequence of spatial operations, including simple and advanced analysis tasks. The results can be presented in attractive digital or printed maps. ArcGIS Pro offers capabilities to explore, visualize, analyze, and create 2D or 3D scenes and share them online. ESRI's strategy with ArcGIS Pro is to integrate the popular applications ArcMap, ArcCatalog, and ArcScene into a single program, thereby simplifying the geographic solution process. In simple terms, ESRI's formula for ArcGIS Pro can be summarized as: For more information about downloading, installing, and obtaining licenses for ArcGIS Pro, please visit https://pro.arcgis.com/ It is recommended to develop this manual using the English version of ArcGIS Pro! According to ESRI (2024), ArcGIS Pro typically organizes the work into projects, which are saved, by default, in a specific folder on the computer. Projects have the file extension ".aprx", in which each project automatically creates its own
📄 Page
20
geodatabase with the extension ".gdb", as well as its own toolbox with the extension ".tbx". 5.1. Create a "New Project" During the initial launch of the application an Internet connection is necessary because the users must validate their login credentials, usually via their ArcGIS Online account. After this, the first screen displayed in ArcGIS Pro provides options to open recent projects or create new ones (see Figure 2). Figure 2. ArcGIS Pro Startup Screen. In the ArcGIS Pro home screen, the most relevant points to consider are: 1. New Project: Creates new projects providing various default templates. Generally, the "Map" template is used for creating new projects. For a temporary project or one intended to be saved later, the "Start without a template" option is recommended. 2. Recent Projects: The user can open recently accessed and saved projects (listed above), where