Inserting layers into a map document

The AddLayer() function can be used to add a layer to a map document either through auto-arrange or as the first or last layer in a data frame. However, it doesn't provide the control you need for inserting a layer in a specific position within a data frame. For this added control, you can use the InsertLayer() function. In this recipe, you will learn how to control the placement of layers added to a data frame.

Getting ready

The AddLayer() function simply adds a layer into a data frame or a group layer, and places the layer automatically using auto-arrange or specific placement at the top or bottom of the data frame or group layer. The InsertLayer() method allows for more precise positioning of a new layer into a data frame or a group layer. It uses a reference layer to specify a location and the layer is added either before or after the reference layer, as specified in your code. Since InsertLayer() requires the use of a reference layer, you can't use...