Basics of Python (for ArcGIS 10)

Description

Using scripts allows you to automate time-consuming and complex processes and perform your GIS work more efficiently. Python is the free, open-source scripting language that has been integrated with ArcGIS 10. This course teaches fundamental concepts you need to know to create Python scripts in ArcGIS. You will learn guidelines for proper Python syntax, techniques to troubleshoot common errors, and how to use loops to test for conditions and execute different code based on the result.

Who Should Attend

GIS specialists, analysts, managers, and others who want to create Python scripts to automate data management, mapping, and geoprocessing workflows in ArcGIS.

Learn How To

• Efficiently work with the ArcMap Python window.
• Apply Python syntax rules to prevent errors in scripts.
• Apply recommended practices to set and use variables that store information used by a script.
• Understand the types of data that can be accessed through a Python script.
• Use if, while, and for loops to test for conditions and perform different actions in a script.
• Quickly access and modify code to run ArcGIS geoprocessing tools.

To complete course exercises, you need the following software:

• ArcGIS 10.0 for Desktop (ArcView, ArcEditor, or ArcInfo)

Why Python?

• Where can you run your scripts?
• Using the Python window
• Set up the Python window

Introducing Python

• Working with variables
• What types of data can Python use?
• Adding functionality to your scripts
• Work with variables and data types
• Making decisions and controlling the flow of your script
• Control the flow of your script
• Tips for writing successful scripts
• Handling errors
• Find common Python syntax errors
• Managing Python error messages

Working with Python in ArcGIS

• Python snippets
• Geoprocessing example
• Rewrite the Clip tool using variables
• Create a geoprocessing script to support notification

Completion of ArcGIS Desktop II: Tools and Functionality or Learning ArcGIS Desktop or equivalent knowledge is required. No Python experience is required.