The more I use ArcGIS the more I realize that it is a very complicated piece of software. You have to be careful to understand each function to deal with problems as they arise.
Here are a few tips I have learned the hard way:
- Always make sure that the projection of the data frame is defined. This sets the stage for all new data that is added.
- When exporting data from one data layer to a new data layer choose to put the new data in the data frame projection. This really helps when using data from the PASDA GIS server. It will also help when doing calculations.
- Always try to put data in a geodatabase rather than leave it in a shape file. The geodatabases recalculate the shape area values by default.
- When you want to determine the areas of polygons in a data table there is a calculate geometry option that lets you put the areas in any units, not just the data frame units.
- Take advantage of the export map option to use a map document as an image file, like this map below.
