Unable to convert graphic texts to annotation in ArcGIS Pro

Description

In ArcGIS Pro, graphic texts can be converted to annotation using the Graphics To Features tool. However, when running the tool, the process fails and the output feature layer is not generated on the map. In some cases, the generic error message is returned:

Cause

The output is saved as a shapefile or to an existing shapefile. Unlike other graphic elements, such as geometric shapes, graphic texts cannot be saved as shapefiles outside of geodatabases. This is because text elements or annotation is not supported in shapefiles.

Solution or Workaround

Remove the .shp extension

In the Graphics To Features pane, remove the .shp extension from the output feature class name. As a result, an annotation feature class is created in the project's geodatabase.

Save the output as a feature class in the project's geodatabase

In the Graphics To Features pane, for the Output Feature Class parameter, specify the project geodatabase location and type the output name. In this example, the 'my_output' feature class is saved to the 'MyProject9' geodatabase. Alternatively, to save the output to an existing feature class, specify the desired feature class within the geodatabase.

Upgrade to ArcGIS Pro 3.2 and above

Upgrade to ArcGIS Pro version 3.2 and above. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Update ArcGIS Pro for more information. In ArcGIS Pro 3.2 and above, the attempt to save the output to an existing shapefile prompts a message to overwrite the selected shapefile. Overwriting the shapefile creates an annotation feature class in the project's geodatabase.

1. Update ArcGIS Pro and restart the machine.
2. Open the ArcGIS Pro project and open the Graphics To Features pane.
3. Configure the parameters in the Graphics To Features pane as desired.
4. For the Output Feature Class parameter, click the Browse icon, select the desired shapefile, and click Save.
5. Click Yes when the Confirm overwrite message is prompted. As a result, a feature class is created in the project's geodatabase.

6. Click Run in the Graphics To Features pane.
7. In the Catalog pane, refresh the content and add the output feature class to the map.