Subject and Course Guides: GIS Workshops: ArcGIS Python Scripting

Spring 2013 Workshop: Basic Python Scripting for ArcGIS

Description

Python is an intuitive scripting language that can be used to automate many geoprocessing functions within ArcGIS. Participants will learn the basics of creating a Python script, become familiar with the native Python environment IDLE, and learn how to call geoprocessing functions into scripts.

Intended Audience

This workshop is designed for those with at least a basic understanding of ArcMap (enrolled in or previously taken an Intro GIS course), but no programming knowledge is required. The workshop is designed specifically for participants brand new to programming.

Workshop Resources

Prepared Data
All scripts we will use in the workshop. Individual scripts can be downloaded at the bottom of the right-hand column.
Intro Slide Presentation

Programming eBook Bibliography

Download PDF

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Some Terms & Definitions

API
Application Programming Interface is a protocol (language) for different applications to communicate with each other. We will use the ARCPY API.
Conditional
Logic statement returning true or false.
Function
A named section of a program that performs a specific task.
Geoprocessing Framework
Collection of geospatial tools and applications. In ArcGIS, the geoprocessing tools are stored within ArcToolbox.
IDLE (Python IDE)
Python's official IDE (Integrated Development Environment) that is packages with Python. IDEs typically providea source code editor, build automation tools, and a debugger.
Variable
Named programming object that represents text, numbers, or other items.

GIS Workshops: ArcGIS Python Scripting

Spring 2013 Workshop: Basic Python Scripting for ArcGIS

Workshop Resources

Programming eBook Bibliography

Some Terms & Definitions

Web Python Resources

eBook Python Resources

Samples

Learn ArcGIS Resources