Unable to select map elements on a layout in ArcGIS Pro

Description

In ArcGIS Pro, a page layout is a collection of map elements including one or more map frames, a legend, a north arrow, a scale bar, a title, and descriptive text organized on a page designed for map printing. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Layouts in ArcGIS Pro for more information.

In some instances, the elements are not selectable for editing when using the Select option in the Elements group from the Layout tab in ArcGIS Pro.

The image below shows the elements not selected when using the Select option in ArcGIS Pro.

Cause

• The element item is locked.
• The 'Remove from the current selection' or 'Select from the current selection' option is selected under the 'Selection combination mode' section.
• The cached version of the element is still active in ArcGIS Pro.

Solution or Workaround

Unlock the element item

In ArcGIS Pro, in the layout view, click the Lock button next to the item in the Contents pane to unlock the element.

Note:
Alternatively, double-click the item in the Contents pane to open the Element pane. Under the Options section, click the General drop-down arrow and uncheck the Locked check box.
 

Set the Selection combination mode

1. In ArcGIS Pro, click the Project ribbon tab > Options.
2. In the Options window, click Selection under Application.
3. Under Selection combination mode, select Create a new selection or Add to the current selection.
4. Click OK.

Clear the cache data

1. In ArcGIS Pro, click the Project ribbon tab > Options.
2. In the Options window, click Display under Application.
3. Under Local cache, click Clear Cache Now.

4. In the Clear Cache window, click OK.
5. Click OK in the Options window to restart ArcGIS Pro and apply the changes.

The image below shows the desired layout elements selected in ArcGIS Pro.