Introduction to Geoprocessing Scripts using Python 10.x
By automating complex or time-consuming processes using scripts, you can increase efficiencies in GIS workflows and streamline data management. The ArcGIS geoprocessing framework includes a scripting environment, and Python® is the scripting language included with ArcGIS.
This course introduces the Python scripting syntax and shows how to use scripts to access and automate geoprocessing tasks. You will also work with ArcPy, an Esri-developed site package for Python that integrates Python scripts into ArcGIS Desktop.
Your instructor will show you how you can take advantage of these new features with particular emphasis on demonstrating the new features which are then consolidated using “hands-on” exercises.
Please note that this course uses ArcMap. If you are using ArcGIS Pro please see our ArcGIS Pro: Creating Python Scripts for ArcGIS course.
Note: It is highly recommended that delegates undertake our one day “Getting Started with the Python Scripting Language” course.
The Python Scripting language is not taught during this course but knowledge is required prior to attending.
Please note that the Python Scripting Language is NOT taught during this course but knowledge is required prior to attending.
It is highly recommended that delegates with no prior Python experience undertake our one day Getting Started with the Python Scripting Language course prior to attending this course.
Python basics: Understanding Python terminology and data types; Exploring built-in functions; Python modules; Working with variables, loops, and functions; Python resources
Introducing ArcPy: ArcPy functions, classes, and modules; Accessing ArcPy in ArcMap; Accessing ArcPy in PythonWin; Creating the geoprocessor
Debugging scripts: Debugging workflow; Handling syntax errors
Using describe objects: Describe function; Describing a feature class; Describing and clipping a raster dataset
Automating scripts with Python lists: List functions; Iterating through lists
Creating and updating data with cursor objects: Cursor objects and functions; The row object; Accessing geometry object properties; Using the SearchCursor and UpdateCursor functions
Running scripts in ArcToolbox: Making scripts dynamic; Running scripts with arguments; Attaching a script to a custom tool
Handling Python and ArcPy exceptions: Using try…except; Using Exception as e; Using arcpy.ExecuteError; Using the traceback module
Creating and updating geometry objects: Working with a geometry list; Using geometry objects to populate a feature class; Using geometry objects in script tools and geoprocessing services
Manipulating data schema and working with subsets of data: Creating a FeatureLayer object; Using the FieldInfo object; Using field delimiters in a SQL query; Creating a subset of features; Performing analysis on FeatureLayer
Automating map production with the ArcPy mapping module: Grid index map series; Strip map index series; Creating a reference map book; Creating a map series book
“Very impressed with Ed and the content provided. At the start of the course I wanted to migrate work in Model Builder into Python scripts – not only do I feel that I can now achieve this, but I’ve also learnt how I can improve the process making it much more efficient”
Richard – National Trust
“What a fantastic course, full of really useful information (which I can see having a very positive impact on my day-to-day work). I thought the emphasis on writing one’s own scripts to be very useful as my learning style means I get so much more from doing tasks rather than just listening to/reading explanations”
Chantelle – English Heritage
“I have thoroughly enjoyed this course and would recommend it to anyone thinking about using Python”
Ian Walker – Atkins Ltd
“The course was excellent and exactly what I was looking for to complement my current position in Exploration. We are currently developing a suite of in house tools of which many are being developed using Python for ArcGIS. Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable course with an excellent and knowledgeable instructor”
Matthew Howe – Maersk Oil & Gas
“Overall, a very good course that cemented many aspects of Python and ArcPy for me. Looking forward to reducing many of my geoprocessing tasks to a single button click!”
Simon Kettle – Exprodat
“I really enjoyed the course and believe that it will enable me to work more efficiently once back in the office. The resources provided in terms of the book and the digital resources on the USB stick will be very useful in future”
Naomi Ang – Transport for London
“Really well rounded with plenty of time to complete tasks and re-visit those you feel you should”
Tim Ward – Atkins
“The course was very beneficial. I am fairly new to GIS but I do understand the programming side of things. I now have a better understanding of Python and GIS”
Robert Parris – North Ayrshire Council