Python Scripting with ArcGIS

Module 9: Working with Cursors and Tables

• Purpose and applications of ArcPy Data Access cursors

• Reading records with Search Cursors

• Changing attribute values with Update Cursors

• Adding new records with Insert Cursors

• Selecting suitable fields for processing

• Applying conditions and calculations to table rows

• Handling null values and different data types

• Using cursors efficiently and responsibly

Module 10: Geometries and Spatial Properties

• Reading geometry objects through cursors

• Processing coordinates, lengths, and areas

• Distinguishing point, line, and polygon geometries

• Using geometry properties in calculations

• Writing spatial information to new fields

• Creating simple geometries with Python

• Combining spatial and attribute-based processing

Module 11: Reading and Writing Files

• Opening and processing text and CSV files

• Reading information from external files

• Writing results to text or CSV files

• Constructing file paths and names reliably

• Distinguishing relative and absolute paths

• Creating, copying, and checking files and directories

• Considering encoding, delimiters, and line structures

• Creating file-based logs and result lists

Module 12: Error Handling and Debugging

• Distinguishing syntax, runtime, and data errors

• Reading and interpreting error messages

• Protecting critical processes with try and except blocks

• Producing custom error messages and guidance

• Retrieving geoprocessing errors from ArcPy

• Checking variables and intermediate results

• Isolating the source of errors step by step

• Testing scripts with different input datasets

Module 13: Integrating Scripts into ArcGIS

• Providing scripts as custom geoprocessing tools

• Creating script tools within a toolbox

• Defining input, output, and optional parameters

• Setting data types, default values, and filters

• Reading parameter values within the script

• Displaying messages, warnings, and errors in the tool interface

• Documenting tools clearly for other users

• Using script tools within models and further workflows

Module 14: Automated Map Production

• Accessing projects, maps, and layers with Python

• Examining map content and data sources

• Adding, removing, or updating layers

• Using layouts and map frames automatically

• Updating text and other layout elements

• Exporting maps and layouts to suitable formats

• Producing recurring map products automatically

• Considering the limitations and requirements of automated cartography

Module 15: Comparing ArcMap and ArcGIS Pro

• Understanding differences between their Python environments

• Recognising changes in modules, functions, and project structures

• Reviewing existing ArcMap scripts

• Identifying obsolete or unavailable functionality

• Adapting paths, data sources, and tool calls

• Modernising scripts gradually for ArcGIS Pro

• Documenting and testing compatibility requirements

Module 16: Practical Project – An Automated GIS Workflow

• Analysing a recurring GIS process

• Defining inputs, processing steps, and outputs

• Finding and checking datasets automatically

• Running multiple geoprocessing tools through a script

• Reading or updating attributes with cursors

• Adding error handling and logging

• Integrating the script as a tool within ArcGIS

• Testing, documenting, and reviewing the results