HOW TO

Build a spatial index for a shapefile

Last Published: March 10, 2021

Summary

Instructions provided describe how to create a spatial index for a shapefile.

Procedure

  1. Start ArcCatalog.
  2. Navigate to the location of the shapefile.
  3. Right-click the shapefile and select Properties.
  4. Select the Index tab.
  5. Click the Add button in the Spatial Index section.
Note:
If the Add button is disabled, the shapefile may be locked by ArcMap. Save the map document and close ArcMap before attempting step 5 again.

Article ID:000006147

Software:
  • ArcMap 8 x
  • ArcMap 9 x

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