01-Introduction to GIS Mapping and ArcGIS 9.2 Software.docVIP

Introduction to GIS Mapping and ESRI’s ArcGIS Software Objectives In this exercise you are introduced to the ArcMap interface and some of the basic skills necessary to begin exploring geospatial data and create simple maps. Once you have successfully completed this part of the tutorial, you should know: How to open ArcMap and a Map Document (.mxd) How to examine your spatial data using ArcCatalog How to add spatial data to your Map Document How to add tabular data to a Map Document and turn it into spatial data How to join tabular data to geographic boundary files The difference between Data View and Layout View How to label Map Features How to alter Map Feature Symbology How to add essential Map Elements (North Arrow, Legend, etc…) for effective map creation How to modify the properties of a data frame. How to set relative pathnames to allow you to move and share your Map Projects How to export your map to PDF and JPG  Getting Ready for the Tutorial Sign Up for the GIS-L Listserv The Yale University GIS-L Listserv is an internal University message system, devoted to GIS use and issues at Yale. The list is the primary source for updates on software and license server issues, data acquisitions and workshop announcements. All GIS users are encourages to sign up for the list. The GIS-L list is very lightly used, so that you will not be overwhelmed with messages that are not relevant to you. In your Web Browser, Go To the Map Collection Website, at /maps Under the Quick Links section on the right,, Click on the “Sign up for the Yale GIS-L Mailing List” link to go to the GIS-L registration page. Enter your Email Address and Choose a Password. Note: We suggest that you not select the Daily Digest feature. Click on the Subscribe Button to finish. You should receive a confirmation email shortly afterward, with instruction on how to use the GIS-L list. Download the Data The datasets used in this tutorial are available for download on the Map Collection Websi