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Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro

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Based on 99 ratings
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To perform map automation, ArcGIS Pro uses its mp sub-module that has evolved from ArcMap's arcpy.mapping.

In this course, which is suitable for English-speaking students from anywhere in the world, you will:

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To perform map automation, ArcGIS Pro uses its mp sub-module that has evolved from ArcMap's arcpy.mapping.

In this course, which is suitable for English-speaking students from anywhere in the world, you will:

  • Use seven key classes of the mp sub-module to perform map automation:
    • ArcGISProject
    • Map
    • Layer
    • Layout
    • MapFrame
    • Camera
    • Extent
  • Use a Python IDE (IDLE demonstrated) to make and export maps to PDF
  • Create a Python script tool that uses tool validation to provide a pick list of field values
  • Use dynamic map elements like an extent indicator on an overview map, legend that only shows features within the current extent, and a graticule
  • Use pseudo-dynamic text for title updating
  • Use ArcGIS Pro to improve output of Python script tool to meet one-off requirements Plus much more.

All necessary data is downloaded from Natural Earth, and most code is available as attachments to download, so that you can choose whether to type every character or copy/paste each line.

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of ArcGIS Pro's mp sub-module for map automation
Covers core classes of the mp sub-module for map automation
Introduces dynamic map elements like extent indicator, legend, and graticule
Uses Python IDE for map creation and export to PDF
Emphasizes hands-on learning through code examples and data downloads

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Reviews summary

Practical map automation with python & arcpy

According to learners, this course offers a highly practical and directly applicable approach to map automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro. Students consistently highlight the clear and concise explanations of complex concepts within the mp sub-module, along with the numerous hands-on exercises. This combination allows them to immediately implement learned skills in their professional workflows. While the course is broadly praised, some learners suggest that a foundational understanding of Python is beneficial, as the pace can be quick. The availability of all necessary data and code attachments is frequently cited as a significant positive, and recent reviews indicate the instructor is actively updating and refining the content, demonstrating strong responsiveness to feedback.
Covers core mp sub-module classes thoroughly.
"It specifically covers the seven key classes of the mp sub-module effectively."
"The course's focus on ArcGISProject, Map, Layer, and Layout was exactly what I needed for my mapping tasks."
"I liked learning about dynamic map elements like the extent indicator and pseudo-dynamic text for titles."
All necessary data and code are provided.
"All necessary data is downloaded from Natural Earth, and most code is available as attachments to download."
"Having the data and code provided was extremely helpful for following along and practicing the exercises."
"I appreciated that I could choose to type every character or copy/paste each line, with all files readily available."
Instructor actively updates course based on feedback.
"Updated course content is excellent! The instructor clearly listened to feedback and refined the modules."
"It's great to see the instructor actively improving the course, making it even more relevant for current ArcGIS Pro versions."
"The continuous updates demonstrate a commitment to keeping the course current and valuable."
Complex ArcPy and Python concepts are explained clearly.
"The instructor explains complex concepts of ArcPy's mp module so clearly."
"It was an excellent introduction to map automation, helping me understand Python in ArcGIS Pro."
"I found the explanations to be very clear and well-structured, making advanced topics accessible."
Enables learners to apply map automation skills instantly.
"I can immediately apply what I learned to my daily tasks at work."
"The hands-on exercises are invaluable, and I’m already using these automation skills."
"This course provided me with very practical automation skills that I could use right away."
Pace can be challenging without prior Python comfort.
"If you're not already comfortable with Python, you might struggle with the pace in some sections."
"I found the pace a bit too fast in some sections, requiring me to pause and re-watch extensively if I didn't have a strong Python background."
"The course assumes some familiarity with Python, which is an important prerequisite to be aware of."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro with these activities:
Review Python Basics
Review the basics of Python, including variables, data types, and control flow, to strengthen your foundation for map automation.
Browse courses on Python Basics
Show steps
  • Read documentation or tutorials on Python basics
  • Try out Python code examples
Python Script Tool with Tool Validation
Use a Python IDE (IDLE) to create a map automation script tool using the mp sub-module.
Browse courses on Python
Show steps
  • Create a new Python script file in IDLE
  • Import the arcpy module
  • Create a new empty map document
  • Add layers to the map document
Map Automation Exercises
Practice using the seven key classes of the mp sub-module to perform map automation tasks.
Show steps
  • Create a new map document
  • Add layers to the map document
  • Create a layout
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Dynamic Map Elements Tutorial
Create dynamic map elements such as extent indicators, legends, and graticules to enhance the interactivity and clarity of your maps.
Show steps
  • Open a map document in ArcGIS Pro
  • Create an extent indicator
  • Create a legend
Contribute to the ArcGIS API for Python
Contribute to the ArcGIS API for Python to gain a deeper understanding of map automation and give back to the community.
Browse courses on Open Source
Show steps
  • Find an issue or feature request on the ArcGIS API for Python GitHub repository
  • Create a pull request to address the issue or implement the feature

Career center

Learners who complete Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cartographer
A Cartographer combines art with science to create maps. These maps can be used for a variety of purposes, including navigation, land use planning, and marketing. Cartographers use a variety of software and techniques to create maps, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Cartographers learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cartographer
GIS Analyst
A GIS Analyst uses geographic information systems (GIS) to analyze and visualize data. GIS Analysts use GIS software to create maps, charts, and other visualizations that can be used to understand patterns and trends. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help GIS Analysts learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Analyst
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst collects, analyzes, and interprets data to help businesses make informed decisions. Data Analysts use a variety of software and techniques to analyze data, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Data Analysts learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst uses data to analyze and understand business trends. Business Analysts use a variety of software and techniques to analyze data, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Business Analysts learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Marketing Analyst
A Marketing Analyst uses data to analyze and understand marketing campaigns. Marketing Analysts use a variety of software and techniques to analyze data, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Marketing Analysts learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Analyst
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner designs and plans the use of land in urban areas. Urban Planners use a variety of software and techniques to plan land use, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Urban Planners learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Urban Planner
Environmental Scientist
An Environmental Scientist studies the environment and its impact on human health. Environmental Scientists use a variety of software and techniques to study the environment, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Environmental Scientists learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist
Geologist
A Geologist studies the Earth's physical structure and history. Geologists use a variety of software and techniques to study the Earth, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Geologists learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geologist
Hydrologist
A Hydrologist studies the movement and distribution of water on the Earth's surface and in the ground. Hydrologists use a variety of software and techniques to study water, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Hydrologists learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Hydrologist
Soil Scientist
A Soil Scientist studies the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil. Soil Scientists use a variety of software and techniques to study soil, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Soil Scientists learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Soil Scientist
Forester
A Forester manages and protects forests. Foresters use a variety of software and techniques to manage forests, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Foresters learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Forester
Landscape Architect
A Landscape Architect designs and plans outdoor spaces. Landscape Architects use a variety of software and techniques to design outdoor spaces, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Landscape Architects learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Landscape Architect
Surveyor
A Surveyor measures and maps land. Surveyors use a variety of software and techniques to measure and map land, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help Surveyors learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Surveyor
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Manager
A GIS Manager oversees the use of GIS in an organization. GIS Managers use a variety of software and techniques to manage GIS, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help GIS Managers learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Manager
GIS Specialist
A GIS Specialist uses GIS to solve problems. GIS Specialists use a variety of software and techniques to use GIS to solve problems, including ArcGIS Pro. The Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro course can help GIS Specialists learn how to use ArcGIS Pro to automate map production, which can save time and improve accuracy.
See salaries and explore the career path for GIS Specialist

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Map Automation using Python and ArcPy for ArcGIS Pro.
Cover image
Python Scripting for ArcGIS Pro
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Provides a foundational understanding of Python scripting in ArcGIS, including working with data, geoprocessing, and automating tasks. Offers a practical approach with step-by-step instructions and exercises.
Python Scripting for ArcGIS Pro
Kindle Edition
$$$
Advanced Python Scripting for ArcGIS Pro
Kindle Edition
$$$
Python Scripting for ArcGIS Pro
Paperback
$$$
Advanced Python Scripting for ArcGIS Pro
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Learning Geospatial Analysis with Python
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Provides a comprehensive overview of geospatial analysis techniques using Python. Covers data preparation, spatial statistics, and visualization. Offers a valuable resource for those interested in applying Python for spatial analysis.
Learning Geospatial Analysis with Python - Fourth...
Paperback
$$
Learning Geospatial Analysis with Python:...
Kindle Edition
$$
Learning Geospatial Analysis With Python: An...
Paperback
$$
Learning Geospatial Analysis with Python
Kindle Edition
$$
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QGIS: Becoming a GIS Power User
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A collection of recipes for automating tasks and extending QGIS functionality using Python. Covers a wide range of topics, including data management, geoprocessing, and plugin development. Provides practical solutions for common challenges faced by QGIS users.
QGIS: Becoming a GIS Power User
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
PostGIS in Action, Third Edition
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Introduces PostGIS, an open-source spatial database extension for PostgreSQL. Covers data modeling, spatial queries, and geospatial analysis using SQL. Provides a practical guide for storing and managing geospatial data in a database.
PostGIS in Action, Third Edition
Paperback
$$
PostGIS in Action, Third Edition
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Fluent Python
Save
Provides a comprehensive guide to the Python programming language. It covers all aspects of Python, from basic syntax to advanced techniques. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Python and use it to automate their GIS workflows.
Fluent Python: Clear, Concise, and Effective...
Paperback
$$
Fluent Python: Clear, Concise, and Effective...
Paperback
$$$
Fluent Python
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Python for Data Analysis
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Provides a comprehensive guide to data analysis with Python. It covers all aspects of data analysis, from data cleaning to data visualization. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about data analysis and use it to automate their GIS workflows.
Python for Data Analysis: Data Wrangling with...
Paperback
$$
Python for Data Analysis
Kindle Edition
$$
Python for Data Analysis: Data Wrangling with...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Natural Language Processing with Python
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Provides a comprehensive guide to Python for GIS. It covers all aspects of Python for GIS, from data acquisition to data visualization. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Python for GIS and use it to automate their GIS workflows.
Natural Language Processing with Python: Analyzing...
Paperback
$$$
(中文) Python Natural Language Processing(Chinese Edition)
Paperback
$$
Natural Language Processing with Python: Analyzing...
Kindle Edition
$$
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The Real Cost of Cheap Food
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Provides a comprehensive guide to GIS for web developers. It covers all aspects of GIS for web developers, from data acquisition to data visualization. This book valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about GIS for web developers and use it to automate their GIS workflows.
The Real Cost of Cheap Food
Paperback
Check
The Real Cost of Cheap Food
Kindle Edition
Check

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Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of ArcGIS Pro's mp sub-module for map automation
Covers core classes of the mp sub-module for map automation
Introduces dynamic map elements like extent indicator, legend, and graticule
Uses Python IDE for map creation and export to PDF
Emphasizes hands-on learning through code examples and data downloads
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