Python scripting for ArcGIS

"Python Scripting for ArcGIS is a guide to help experienced users of ArcGIS for Desktop get started with Python scripting. This book teaches how to write Python code that works with spatial data to automate geoprocessing tasks in ArcGIS. Readers can thus learn the skill set needed to create custom tools. Key topics in this book include Python language fundamentals, automating geoprocessing tasks, exploring and manipulating spatial data, working with geometries and rasters, map scripting, debugging and error handling, creating functions and classes, and creating and sharing script tools"--

Includes index.

Pt. 1 Learning the fundamentals of Python and geoprocessing -- ch. 1 Introducing Python -- 1.1. Introduction -- 1.2. Exploring the features of Python -- 1.3.Comparing scripting vs. programming -- 1.4. Using scripting in ArcGIS -- 1.5. Python history and versions -- 1.6. About this book -- 1.7. Exploring how Python is used -- 1.8. Choosing a Python script editor -- Points to remember -- ch. 2 Geoprocessing in ArcGIS -- 2.1. Introduction -- 2.2. What is geoprocessing? -- 2.3.A note on ArcObjects -- 2.4. Using toolboxes and tools -- 2.5. Learning types and categories of tools -- 2.6. Running tools using tool dialog boxes -- 2.7. Specifying environment settings -- 2.8. Using batch processing -- 2.9. Using models and ModelBuilder -- 2.10. Using scripting -- 2.11. Running scripts as tools -- 2.12. Converting a model to a script -- 2.13. Scheduling a Python script to run at prescribed times -- Points to remember -- ch. 3 Using the Python window -- 3.1. Introduction -- 3.2. Opening the Python window -- 3.3. Writing and running code -- 3.4. Getting assistance -- 3.5. Exploring Python window options -- 3.6. Saving your work -- 3.7. Loading code into the Python window -- Points to remember -…