Create valid geometry for a feature with null geometry

Summary

The Replace Geometry tool allows a valid geometry to be created for a feature that currently has null geometry.

Procedure

Note:
If you are using ArcGIS 10.1, the Replace Geometry tool is on the Advanced Editing toolbar by default. You do not need to add it from the Customize dialog box. Start at step 5.

1. In ArcMap, click the Customize menu and click Customize Mode.
2. Click the Commands tab.
3. In the 'Show commands containing' box, type Replace Geometry.
4. Click the Replace Geometry command from the Editor category and drag and drop it onto any toolbar, such as the Editor toolbar. Close the Customize dialog box when done.
5. Make sure the layer containing the null geometry is in the map. On the Editor toolbar, click the Editor menu and click Start Editing, if not already in an edit session.
6. Select the row in the table containing null geometry. Make sure to select only one row at a time.
7. Click the Replace Geometry tool. If the feature selected has valid geometry already, a message is received indicating this.
8. Click the map to define the feature's shape. To create a point, click the map where the feature should be placed. If the selected feature is a line or polygon, the segment construction method can be changed using the Editor toolbar and palette. Finish the sketch when the shape has been defined.