BRAINBIT INFOTECH · RANCHI

GIS for Beginners

Module 2: ArcGIS Pro Fundamentals

4 hours4 sub-topicsGuided project5 practice examples

Meet ArcGIS Pro, find your way around its interface, create a proper project and control layers - then build your first map of Ranchi city.

Pro
MODULE 2

ArcGIS Pro Fundamentals

⏱ Duration: 4 hours5 practice examples1 workplace practical

Topics

  1. 2.1 Introduction to ArcGIS Pro
  2. 2.2 ArcGIS Pro Interface
  3. 2.3 Creating a Project
  4. 2.4 Working with Layers
  5. Practical: My First GIS Project - Ranchi City Map
  6. 5 Practice Examples

By the end you can

  • Explain what ArcGIS Pro is and how it replaced ArcMap
  • Name every main pane and view of the interface
  • Create a project with maps, layouts, databases and toolboxes
  • Add, remove, order and style layers
  • Make and export a Ranchi city map
Pro
Module 2The Big Picture

Your Learning Journey Today

2.1 Meet ProWhat, why, licence2.2 InterfacePanes and views2.3 ProjectFolders, maps, gdb2.4 LayersAdd, order, stylePracticalRanchi City Map
4 hrs240 minutes
  • 2.1 Introduction 35 min (14.6%)
  • 2.2 Interface 45 min (18.8%)
  • 2.3 Project 30 min (12.5%)
  • 2.4 Layers 40 min (16.7%)
  • Practical + examples 90 min (37.5%)
Trainer tipEvery trainee needs ArcGIS Pro installed and signed in before class. Test one login per PC the day before.
How we learnLearning by doing: every slide with a button is a live demo. Trainees repeat each step in ArcGIS Pro.
Module 22.1 Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

What is ArcGIS Pro?

2D Maps3D ScenesLayouts / PrintAnalysis (Geoprocessing)Editing dataPython (ArcPy)Share onlineImageryArcGISPro

What is ArcGIS Pro?

ArcGIS Pro is Esri's main desktop GIS application for Windows. One program to view, create, edit, analyse and share maps and spatial data - in 2D and 3D.

  • 64-bit and multi-threaded: handles big data faster
  • Many maps, scenes and layouts in ONE project
  • Modern ribbon interface (like MS Office)
  • Connected to ArcGIS Online / Enterprise
  • Python built in for automation
At the workplaceGovernment departments, smart-city projects, mining, forestry and utilities across Jharkhand use Esri software. ArcGIS Pro skills appear in many GIS job posts.
Module 22.1 Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

ArcGIS Pro vs ArcMap

1999ArcMap launched (ArcGIS 8)2015ArcGIS Pro 1.0 released2021ArcMap 10.8.2final release2022ArcGIS Pro 3.02026ArcMap retired1 March 2026
ArcMap (ArcGIS Desktop)ArcGIS Pro
Program type32-bit, mostly single-threaded64-bit, multi-threaded
Project file.mxd (one map + one layout).aprx (many maps, scenes, layouts)
3DSeparate apps (ArcScene, ArcGlobe)Built in (scenes)
InterfaceMenus and toolbarsRibbon with contextual tabs
PythonPython 2.7Python 3
Status todayRetired - no updatesActively developed
RememberOld ArcMap work is not lost: Insert › Import Map opens an .mxd inside ArcGIS Pro.
At the workplaceMany offices still have old .mxd files and ArcMap screenshots in manuals. Recognise them, but learn and work in Pro.
Module 22.1 Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

ArcGIS Pro Project Structure

A new project creates

📁 D:\GIS\Projects\Ranchi_City_Map\
└─ 📄 Ranchi_City_Map.aprx
└─ 🗃 Ranchi_City_Map.gdb
└─ 🧰 Ranchi_City_Map.atbx
└─ 📁 Index
└─ 📁 ImportLog / GpMessages
.aprxProject file - open this to continue work
.gdbDefault file geodatabase for your data
.atbxDefault toolbox for your own tools/models

The .aprx stores references, not data

.aprxproject fileMaps & layouts (inside)Project .gdb (data)Folder connectionsOnline layers / basemaps
Common mistakeCopying only the .aprx to another PC = broken layers (red ! marks). Share the whole project folder or use Share › Project Package (.ppkx).
Module 22.1 Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

Installation in Six Steps

1Check PC
Windows 10/11 64-bit, 8 GB+ RAM (16-32 GB better), DirectX 11 graphics, SSD
2Get installer
From My Esri, ArcGIS Online (your org) or your institute admin
3Prerequisites
Installer asks for Microsoft .NET Desktop Runtime if missing
4Install
Run ArcGISPro .exe / .msi; default folder C:\Program Files\ArcGIS\Pro
5License
Start ArcGIS Pro › sign in, or Settings › Licensing
6Verify
Open a new Map project; basemap draws = success
RAM for comfortable use01020308 GBMinimum16 GBBetter32 GBRecommended
RememberArcGIS Pro runs only on Windows. On a Mac it needs a Windows virtual machine.
Trainer tipCheck the official "ArcGIS Pro system requirements" page for the exact version you install - requirements change between releases.
Module 22.1 Introduction to ArcGIS Pro

Licensing Concepts: Who, Where and How Much

Named User

Sign in with an ArcGIS account (ArcGIS Online / Enterprise). License follows the PERSON, on any PC.

Most common today; used in colleges and offices

Single Use

Authorised on ONE computer with an authorisation number.

Stand-alone PCs, no internet sign-in each time

Concurrent Use

Licenses float from a License Manager server. Any PC can borrow one while available.

Large offices and training labs

License levels

BasicStandardAdvancedMore tools and editing power at each level

Extensions add special tools

Spatial Analyst3D AnalystNetwork AnalystImage AnalystGeostatistical Analyst
For learnersLearners can use a free trial, an institute or student license, or the low-cost Personal Use license (non-commercial). Never use cracked software.
Module 22.2 ArcGIS Pro Interface

Interface Tour (click to explore)

💾 ↶ ↷ | Ranchi_City_Map - ArcGIS ProSign in — ☐ ✕ProjectMapInsertAnalysisViewEditImageryShareClipboardNavigateLayerSelectionInquiryLabelingOfflineContentsDrawing OrderMapLandmarksRoadsLakesWardsTopographic🌎 Map📄 LayoutBasemap (schematic)N0~3 kmCatalogGeoprocessing▸ Maps▸ Layouts▸ Toolboxes▸ Databases▸ Styles▸ Folders▸ LocatorsGeoprocessing: BufferInput FeaturesOutputDistanceRunLandmarks (attribute table)OBJECTIDNameTypeLatitudeLongitude1Kanke DamLandmark23.41585.3182Rock GardenLandmark23.40585.3263Morabadi GroundLandmark23.3985.3351:50,000 ▾ 85.3250°E 23.3640°N ◯ Selected Features: 0

Click any part

Click a button or directly on the picture to highlight that part of ArcGIS Pro.

Drawing is a simplified illustration of the ArcGIS Pro window.

Module 22.2 ArcGIS Pro Interface

The Ribbon: Tabs, Groups and Contextual Tabs

ProjectMapInsertAnalysisViewEditShareFeature Layer (contextual)appears when a layer is selectedExploreBookmarkAdd DataBasemapSelectClearMeasureLocate
Life saverLost a pane? View › Reset Panes brings back the standard layout.
TabUse it to
ProjectOpen, save, options, licensing, sign in
MapNavigate, add data, basemap, select, labels
InsertNew map, scene, layout, toolbox, import .mxd
AnalysisTools, geoprocessing history, Python
ViewOpen panes: Contents, Catalog, Geoprocessing; reset panes
EditCreate and modify features
ShareExport layout (PDF/JPG), packages, publish online
Trainer tipHover over any ribbon button for 1 second to see a tooltip explaining it.
Module 22.2 ArcGIS Pro Interface

Contents Pane vs Catalog Pane

Catalog▾ Folders 📁 Ranchi_Data roads.shp wards.shp landmarks.csv▸ Databases▸ ToolboxesMap viewroads.shpDrag & drop = layer added!

Contents pane

What is in this map right now. Layers, drawing order, symbols.

View › Contents

vs

Catalog pane

Everything available to the project: folders, databases, maps, layouts, tools.

View › Catalog Pane

RememberAnalogy: Catalog is the almirah with all your files; Contents is the desk where you place the papers you are working on now.
Trainer tipContents has view buttons at the top: List By Drawing Order (default), by Data Source, by Selection, by Editing, by Snapping, by Labeling.
Module 22.2 ArcGIS Pro Interface

Map View vs Layout View

Ranchi City MapLegendLandmarkRoadLakeWardN0 1 2 kmSource: sample data | Basemap: Esri
Map viewLayout view
PurposeExplore, edit, analyseDesign a printable page
SizeEndless, zoom anywhereFixed page (A4, A3...)
ContainsLayersMap frame, title, legend, north arrow, scale bar, text
CreateInsert › New MapInsert › New Layout

Map navigation

ZoomMouse wheel
PanDrag with the Explore tool
Full extentMap tab › Navigate › Full Extent
Find a placeMap tab › Locate (type "Ranchi")
Module 22.2 ArcGIS Pro Interface

Geoprocessing Pane and Attribute Table

Geoprocessing pane

Geoprocessing🔍 bufferBuffer (Analysis Tools)Input FeaturesLandmarksOutput Feature ClassLandmarks_BufferDistance500 MetersRun500 m buffer zones created

Open: Analysis › Tools. Search a tool, fill the form, click Run.

Attribute table (click a point)

Bada TalabMorabadi GroundRanchi Junction
OBJECTIDNameTypeLat
1Bada TalabLake23.371
2Morabadi GroundPark23.39
3Ranchi JunctionStation23.348
Click a point to select its row.
RememberOpen with right-click layer › Attribute Table. Map and table are linked: select in one, it highlights in the other.
Module 22.3 Creating a Project

Start Page, Templates and New Project

ArcGIS ProOpenNewLearning ResourcesSettingsNew project🗺Map📁Catalog🌐Global Scene🏔Local SceneStart without a templateCreate a New ProjectNameRanchi_City_MapLocationD:\GIS\ProjectsCreate a new folder for this projectOK

New project in 4 clicks

  1. 1
    Open ArcGIS Pro and sign in.
  2. 2
    Under New, choose the Map template.
  3. 3
    Name: Ranchi_City_Map (no spaces is safest).
  4. 4
    Location: D:\GIS\Projects; keep "Create a new folder" ticked; OK.
TemplateOpens with
MapA 2D map with a basemap
CatalogJust the Catalog view (data management)
Global Scene3D globe
Local Scene3D view of a small area
RememberSave often: Ctrl+S saves the .aprx project.
Module 22.3 Creating a Project

Folders, Maps, Scenes, Layouts, Databases, Toolboxes

Catalog: Project📁FoldersShortcut to D:\GIS\Data🗺Maps2D map views🌐Scenes3D views📄LayoutsPrint pages🗃DatabasesStore feature classes🧰ToolboxesYour models & scripts
ItemHow to add
FoldersCatalog › Folders › right-click › Add Folder Connection
MapsInsert › New Map
ScenesInsert › New Map ▾ › New Global / Local Scene
LayoutsInsert › New Layout › ISO A4 Landscape
DatabasesCatalog › Databases › right-click › New File Geodatabase
ToolboxesInsert › Toolbox › New Toolbox
RememberOne project can hold many maps (e.g. "Ward Map", "Road Map") and many layouts (A4 report, A3 wall map) - no need for separate files.
Module 22.3 Creating a Project

Maps (2D) and Scenes (3D)

Map (2D)Scene (3D)Buildings extruded by height
Global SceneLocal Scene
ShowsWhole curved EarthA flat local area
Good forCountries, flight pathsCity buildings, mines, campus
Trainer tipConvert any time: select the map › View › Convert to Global or Local Scene.
RememberBeginners: work in a 2D Map first. Scenes need more graphics power.
Module 22.4 Working with Layers

Add, Remove, Show/Hide and Reorder (try it)

Contents - Drawing OrderMap
  • Landmarks
  • Roads
  • Lakes
  • Wards
  • Basemap
Selected layer: Wards   Transparency: 0%

Tick boxes, use ▲▼ to reorder, ✕ to remove, click a name to select it.

Basemap (schematic)Ward 1Ward 2Ward 3Ward 4Ward 5Ward 6Ward 7Ward 8Ward 9Ward 10Ward 11Ward 12Ward 13Ward 14Ward 15Ward 16Kanke DamRock GardenMorabadi GroundTagore HillBada TalabPahari MandirAlbert Ekka ChowkRanchi JunctionBirsa Munda AirportJagannath TempleN0~3 km
Module 22.4 Working with Layers

Layer Ordering: Who Sits on Top?

BasemapWards (polygons)Lakes (polygons)Roads (lines)Landmarks (points)TOP of listBOTTOM

Drawing order rule

Layers are like transparent sheets stacked on a table. The layer at the top of the Contents list is drawn last, so it sits on top.

Points → Lines → Polygons → Basemap
top to bottom
TaskHow in ArcGIS Pro
Add layerMap tab › Add Data, or drag from Catalog
Remove layerRight-click › Remove (data on disk stays safe)
Show / hideTick box beside the layer
ReorderDrag up/down in List By Drawing Order
Module 22.4 Working with Layers

Layer Properties

Layer Properties: WardsGeneralMetadataSourceElevationSelectionDisplayCacheDefinition QueryTimeRangeIndexesJoinsRelatesPage QueryNameRanchi Wards (sample)Visibility rangeOut beyond (min scale)1:250,000In beyond (max scale)<None>Display layer in legendDescriptionMunicipal ward boundaries for trainingOKCancel

Open: double-click the layer, or right-click › Properties.

TabUse
GeneralRename, visibility range (scale)
MetadataDescribe the layer
SourceWhere the data lives, coordinate system
Definition QueryShow only some features (e.g. one ward)
DisplayDisplay field, scale symbols
JoinsAttach a table
RememberColours and symbols are NOT here - use the Symbology pane (right-click › Symbology). Transparency: Feature Layer tab › Effects.
Module 22.4 Working with Layers

Metadata: The Label on the Data Box

Metadata = data about data

TitleRanchi Wards (sample)
TagsRanchi, wards, boundary, Jharkhand
SummaryWard boundaries for training
DescriptionPolygons of 16 sample wards drawn for GIS training.
CreditsBrainBit Infotech, 2026
Use limitationsTraining use only, not official

Where to find and edit

  1. 1
    Catalog pane: right-click the feature class › View Metadata.
  2. 2
    To change: right-click › Edit Metadata; fill Title, Tags, Summary, Description, Credits, Use limitations.
  3. 3
    Save (Metadata tab › Save).
  4. 4
    For a layer only: Layer Properties › Metadata tab.
RememberGood metadata answers: What? Who? When? Where? How accurate? Can I use it?
At the workplaceDepartments reject data without source and date. Fill metadata before you share any layer.
Module 2Practical

My First GIS Project - Ranchi City Map

Goal

Create "My First GIS Project - Ranchi City Map" in ArcGIS Pro and export an A4 map as PDF.

Data (in D:\GIS\Data\Ranchi)TypeFeatures
Ranchi_Wards.shpPolygon16
Ranchi_Roads.shpLine6
Ranchi_Lakes.shpPolygon2
Ranchi_Landmarks.csvPoint (lat/long)10
Wards16Roads6Lakes2Landmarks10
NoteAll practical data is sample/approximate for training. Landmark positions are approximate.
Basemap (schematic)Ward 1Ward 2Ward 3Ward 4Ward 5Ward 6Ward 7Ward 8Ward 9Ward 10Ward 11Ward 12Ward 13Ward 14Ward 15Ward 16Kanke DamRock GardenMorabadi GroundTagore HillBada TalabPahari MandirAlbert Ekka ChowkRanchi JunctionBirsa Munda AirportJagannath TempleN0~3 km

Target result (schematic preview)

Module 2Practical

Step-by-Step Builder: Click "Next step"

  1. 1
    Start ArcGIS Pro › New › Map. Name Ranchi_City_Map, location D:\GIS\Projects.
  2. 2
    Catalog › Folders › Add Folder Connection › D:\GIS\Data\Ranchi. Map tab › Locate "Ranchi".
  3. 3
    Drag Ranchi_Wards.shp onto the map. Symbology: light purple fill, 40% transparency.
  4. 4
    Add Ranchi_Lakes.shp; symbol: blue "Water" style.
  5. 5
    Add Ranchi_Roads.shp; Symbology › Unique Values by road type.
  6. 6
    Add Ranchi_Landmarks.csv with XY Table To Point (X = Longitude, Y = Latitude, WGS 1984).
  7. 7
    Check order: Landmarks, Roads, Lakes, Wards, Basemap. Turn on labels for Landmarks.
  8. 8
    Layer Properties: rename layers; set label visibility range to 1:100,000. Fill metadata.
  9. 9
    Insert › New Layout (A4 Landscape) › Map Frame. Add title, legend, north arrow, scale bar.
  10. 10
    Share › Export Layout › PDF (300 dpi). Ctrl+S to save the project.
Basemap (schematic)Ward 1Ward 2Ward 3Ward 4Ward 5Ward 6Ward 7Ward 8Ward 9Ward 10Ward 11Ward 12Ward 13Ward 14Ward 15Ward 16Kanke DamRock GardenMorabadi GroundTagore HillBada TalabPahari MandirAlbert Ekka ChowkRanchi JunctionBirsa Munda AirportJagannath TempleN0~3 km
Press Next step to start building
Module 2Practical

The Finished Layout

My First GIS Project - Ranchi City MapBasemap (schematic)Ward 1Ward 2Ward 3Ward 4Ward 5Ward 6Ward 7Ward 8Ward 9Ward 10Ward 11Ward 12Ward 13Ward 14Ward 15Ward 16Kanke DamRock GardenMorabadi GroundTagore HillBada TalabPahari MandirAlbert Ekka ChowkRanchi JunctionBirsa Munda AirportJagannath TempleN0~3 kmLegendLandmarkMain roadOther roadLakeWardN0 1.5 3 kmPrepared by: Trainee name | BrainBit Infotech, Ranchi | Date: 02-10-2026Data: training sample (approximate). Coordinate system: WGS 1984. Basemap: Esri.

Final checklist

  • Project folder with .aprx, .gdb, .atbx
  • 4 data layers + basemap in correct order
  • Landmarks labelled
  • Metadata filled for each layer
  • A4 layout: title, map, legend, north arrow, scale bar, credits
  • PDF exported to D:\GIS\Projects\Ranchi_City_Map\
At the workplaceEvery map must answer: What? Where? When? Who made it? Data source? Put these in the title and credits.
Trainer tipShow the PDF to the class. Trainees vote for the clearest map - a great motivator!
Module 2Practice Example 1 of 5

Name the Interface Parts

BeginnerYour supervisor gives a printed screenshot of ArcGIS Pro with 5 areas marked. Name each part.
💾 ↶ ↷ | Ranchi_City_Map - ArcGIS ProSign in — ☐ ✕ProjectMapInsertAnalysisViewEditImageryShareClipboardNavigateLayerSelectionInquiryLabelingOfflineContentsDrawing OrderMapLandmarksRoadsLakesWardsTopographic🌎 Map📄 LayoutBasemap (schematic)N0~3 kmCatalogGeoprocessing▸ Maps▸ Layouts▸ Toolboxes▸ Databases▸ Styles▸ Folders▸ LocatorsGeoprocessing: BufferInput FeaturesOutputDistanceRunLandmarks (attribute table)OBJECTIDNameTypeLatitudeLongitude1Kanke DamLandmark23.41585.3182Rock GardenLandmark23.40585.3263Morabadi GroundLandmark23.3985.3351:50,000 ▾ 85.3250°E 23.3640°N ◯ Selected Features: 012345
1 Area at very top with tabs2 Left list of layers3 Right list of maps, databases, folders4 Big central picture5 Bottom grid of rows

Your tasks

  1. Name parts 1 to 5.
  2. Write one job you do in each part.
  3. How do you bring back a closed pane?
  1. Ribbon
  2. Contents pane
  3. Catalog pane
  4. Map view
  5. Attribute table

Bonus: Layout view tab sits beside the Map tab; Geoprocessing pane shares space with Catalog.

Closed pane: View › Reset Panes (or View › open the pane).

Module 2Practice Example 2 of 5

Plan a New Project

BeginnerThe municipal office in Dhanbad starts a ward survey. Set up a clean ArcGIS Pro project.

Requirements

  • Project name: Dhanbad_Ward_Survey
  • One 2D map, one A3 layout
  • A separate geodatabase for survey data
  • Quick access to D:\GIS\Data\Dhanbad

Your tasks

  1. Which template will you choose?
  2. Write the folder structure created.
  3. How do you add the A3 layout, new database and folder connection?
D:\GIS\Projects\Dhanbad_Ward_Survey\
└ Dhanbad_Ward_Survey.aprx
└ Dhanbad_Ward_Survey.gdb
└ Dhanbad_Ward_Survey.atbx
└ Index

Template: Map. Add: Insert › New Layout (A3), Catalog › Databases › New File Geodatabase "Survey_2026.gdb", folder connection to D:\GIS\Data\Dhanbad.

Module 2Practice Example 3 of 5

Fix the Drawing Order

IntermediateA trainee says "My layers disappeared!" Here is their Contents pane.
Contents - Drawing Order
  • Basemap (Imagery)
  • Schools (points)
  • Wards (polygons)
  • Roads (lines)

Problem: the map shows only a satellite photo.

Your tasks

  1. Explain why only the basemap is visible.
  2. Write the correct order top to bottom.
  3. What else would help the wards not hide roads?
  1. Schools (points)
  2. Roads (lines)
  3. Wards (polygons) - hollow or transparent fill
  4. Basemap (Imagery)

The basemap was on top and covered everything. Drag it to the bottom.

Module 2Practice Example 4 of 5

Set Layer Properties

IntermediateYour manager wants the roads layer to behave better on the city map.

Layer: Ranchi_Roads

  • Rename it to "Roads of Ranchi"
  • Hide road layer when zoomed out beyond 1:250,000
  • Show only roads where TYPE = 'Main'
  • Check which coordinate system it uses
  • Make it 30% transparent

Your tasks

  1. Find the correct place for each of the 5 changes.
  2. Apply them in ArcGIS Pro.
  3. Zoom out and confirm the layer hides at small scale.
TaskWhere
RenameProperties › General › Name (or click name slowly twice)
Visibility rangeProperties › General › Out beyond 1:250,000
Only Main roadsProperties › Definition Query › TYPE is equal to Main
Coordinate systemProperties › Source › Spatial Reference
TransparencyFeature Layer tab › Effects › Layer Transparency 30%
Module 2Practice Example 5 of 5

Write Metadata for Landmarks

ChallengeBefore sharing your project, complete the metadata for the Landmarks layer.
Field Your entry
Title
Tags
Summary
Description
Credits
Use limitations

Your tasks

  1. Fill all six fields.
  2. Enter them in ArcGIS Pro (Edit Metadata).
  3. View the metadata and check nothing is blank.
TitleRanchi Landmarks (sample)
TagsRanchi, landmarks, tourism, points
Summary10 important places in Ranchi city for a training map
DescriptionPoints created from a CSV of approximate lat/long, WGS 1984, October 2026
CreditsYour name, BrainBit Infotech
Use limitationsTraining only; positions approximate
Module 2Recap

Module 2 Summary and Quiz

TopicKey idea
2.1Pro = 64-bit, ribbon, many maps/layouts, licences: Named User, Single Use, Concurrent
2.2Ribbon, Contents, Catalog, Map, Layout, Geoprocessing, Attribute table
2.3Project = folder + .aprx + .gdb + .atbx; add maps, scenes, layouts
2.4Add, remove, visibility, order, properties, metadata
HomeworkHomework: create a second map in the same project called "Ranchi Wards Only" with just the wards and a basemap.

Quick quiz

  1. File extension of an ArcGIS Pro project?
  2. When was ArcMap retired?
  3. Which pane shows layers of the current map?
  4. Where do you design a printable page?
  5. Top layer in Contents draws on top or bottom?
  6. Does Remove layer delete data from disk?
  1. .aprx
  2. 1 March 2026
  3. Contents pane
  4. Layout view
  5. On top
  6. No - only removes it from the map
MODULE 2 COMPLETE

Thank You!

You have built your first ArcGIS Pro project. Next: bring in more data and make better maps.

BrainBit Infotech Teaching

Pro