Match the extent of multiple map frame layouts in ArcGIS Pro

Summary

The map extent of each map frame in a project is independent of other map frames. In ArcGIS Pro, while it is possible to link map frames in a single layout, it is not possible for multiple layouts. However, the extent between the layouts can be matched. It is necessary to match the extent over different map frame layouts to visualize and compare data, especially when the map frames contain different label placements and symbols.

Follow the workflow described in this article to match the extent of multiple map frame layouts in ArcGIS Pro.

Procedure

1. Open the ArcGIS Pro project.
2. Click one of the layout tabs to activate the layout view. The tab turns blue. In this example, Layout A is activated.

3. In the layout view, set the map frame extent. Refer to ArcGIS Online: Work with a map on a layout for more information.
4. Copy the extent values of the map frame.
   1. In the Contents pane, right-click the map frame layer, and click Properties.
   2. In the Format Map Frame pane, on the Display Options tab, expand the Location Settings node, and click Extent….

3. In the Map Frame Extent window, in the Get extent from: section, click Current visible extent.
4. Under Selected extent:, click Copy all extent values .
5. Click OK.

5. Paste the extent values of the map frame in a different layout view.
   1. Click a different layout to activate the layout view. In this example, Layout B is activated.

2. In the Contents pane, right-click the map frame layer, and click Properties.
3. In the Format Map Frame pane, on the Display Options tab, expand the Location Settings node, and click Extent….

4. In the Map Frame Extent window, under Selected extent:, click Paste all extent values .
5. Click OK.

The following images demonstrate the matching extent of the two map frame layouts in ArcGIS Pro.

Layout A

Layout B