PROBLEM

Cannot use left parenthesis in Extract Wizard Query Builder

Last Published: April 25, 2020

Description

The Query Builder in the Extract Wizard does not accept left parenthesis in expressions. Attempting to add a parenthesis produces the following message "Left parentheses must follow an item or operator". This message is produced even when the parenthesis does follow an item or operator.

Using the keyboard to add the left parenthesis erases parts of the expression.

Cause

This is a known issue with ArcGIS 8.1

This Wizard uses the ArcInfo Workstation RESELECT command, which does not allow complex, single-line, bracketed expressions. The RESELECT command requires expressions to be build vertically (multiple lines) and horizontally.

Solution or Workaround

Use the downward pointing arrow, located to the right of the Current Expression text box, to build the expression vertically using either the Subset or Add methods.

  • For example, the following expression:

    AREA > 500 and (SITE = 'G' OR SITE = 'M'), 


    Can be built vertically like this:

    Subset   AREA > 500
    Subset SITE = 'G' OR SITE = 'M'

    You would do this with the Subset method.

    1. Enter the expression: AREA > 500.
    2. Add it to the Expression List (use the down arrow).
    3. Switch the selection method to Subset.
    4. Enter the expression: SITE = 'G' OR SITE = 'M'.
    5. Add it to the Expression List.



  • For example, the following expression:

    (age = 1 and height = 3) or (age = 2 and height = 4) 


    Can be built vertically like this:

    Subset   age = 1 and height = 3
    Add age = 2 and height = 4

    You would do this with the Add method.

    1. Enter the expression: age = 1 and height = 3.
    2. Add it to the Expression List.
    3. Switch the selection method to Add.
    4. Enter the expression: age = 2 and height = 4.
    5. Add it to the Expression List.

Article ID:000004189

Software:
  • ArcMap 8 x

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