Create a coded value domain

Summary

A coded value domain can apply to any type of attribute, such as text, numeric, and date, and specifies a valid set of values for an attribute.

Example of a coded value list for a text attribute of valid pipe material values:

Code:
 CL - cast iron pipe
 DL - ductile iron pipe
ACP - asbestos concrete pipe

Code:
.75 - 3/4"
  2 - 2"
 24 - 24"
 30 - 30"

Procedure

1. In ArcCatalog, right-click on the data connection, click Properties, and select the Domains tab.
   
2. Select a domain from the list and add a new coded value with a description.
   
   
3. Associate the updated domain with a feature class field using the 'Assign Domain To Field' tool in ArcToolBox. This is available by navigating to ArcToolbox > Data Management Tools > Domains > Assign Domain to Field.
4. Start ArcMap with a new blank map document. Drag and drop the layer with the field specified to use the updated domain from ArcCatalog to ArcMap. Close ArcCatalog.
5. Start an edit session in ArcMap. The coded value can now be selected in the attribute table.