Insert x,y coordinates in attribute table, point feature not plotted

Question

Hi.  I am working with a feature class of point locations with associated attributes in ArcGIS Pro.  The feature class was created from a csv file exported from another database.  Some of the features do not have latitude and longitude coordinates in the attribute table (e.g., PO Box ## entered as the street address and could not be geocoded).  I have been locating these points manually and retrieving the coordinate pair from another map system.  I then copy/paste to enter the coordinates in the attribute table, but the point is not drawn on the map.  I was under the assumption that when the location information was added to the attribute table, the point would be drawn.  I tried the Replace Geometry gp tool, but that didn't work.  What am I missing and need to do to have the map recognize the coordinates and plot the point features?  Many thanks in advance.

J_Drummond · Answer

The Replace Geometry tool allows you to plot a point on the basemap for the highlighted entry in your attribute tool. Then you can Calculate Geometry to populate the missing coordinates.

jhodny@Newark.de.us_CityOfNewarkDE · Answer

Hi all, my apologies for not replying sooner.  I was pulled onto other GIS projects, but I am now back working on this one.  Thank you for the suggestions, I now have a better understanding on how the XY event layer works and how to use it.

Sincerely,
Jay

shan_sarkar · Answer

Jay,

Since the data is bound to update (addition of missing coordinates) you can use the Make XY Event Layer—Data Management toolbox | ArcGIS Desktop but do not export the file as it will become permanent. Save the project.

Now once you receive the coordinates for the points missing them, you can simply update them in the input .csv and the points geometry in the XY Event layer will be automatically updated. You will not have to update the attribute table and export or get into other editing issues.

I hope this helps!

~Shan