Unable to select graphics layer in a geoprocessing tool in ArcGIS Pro

Description

In ArcGIS Pro, graphics layers are used to display temporary shapes, text, and other visual elements for map markup and annotation. However, when attempting to use a graphics layer as input in a geoprocessing tool, the layer cannot be selected, as the tool does not recognize it as a valid input. This limitation prevents users from performing spatial analysis or creating features directly using graphics layer elements.

The Pairwise Buffer geoprocessing pane below shows that the graphics layer cannot be selected as the input feature for the tool.

Cause

This is expected behavior. Graphics layers are intended for simple visual annotations and do not have the spatial indexing required by geoprocessing tools, which rely on optimized spatial processing.

Solution or Workaround

To resolve the issue, convert the graphics layer into a feature layer using the Graphics To Features tool.