Preface
Welcome to Learning ArcGIS for Desktop. ArcGIS for Desktop is one of the main components of Esri's ArcGIS platform, which is used to support decision making and solve various mapping problems. It contains a wide variety of tools to create, manage, analyze, map, and share spatial data.
Learning ArcGIS for Desktop starts with the computer hardware and software recommendations. Then, this book goes on to show you how to obtain and install a 60-day trial of ArcGIS for Desktop (Advanced) on Windows. The second chapter explores coordinate reference system concepts. In the next three chapters, you will learn how to create a file geodatabase and manage, create, edit, and symbolize spatial data. Then, this book focuses on planning and performing spatial analysis on vector data using geoprocessing tools and ModelBuilder. Next, you will analyze raster data using the Spatial Analyst and 3D Analyst extensions. Finally, basic principles of cartography design will be used to create a professional poster map.
The book is a tutorial-based guide that will lead you through the basic concepts and functions of Esri's ArcGIS for Desktop software.