idea Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro in ArcGIS Pro Ideas

Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro

Anonymous User — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 20:41:09 GMT

Hi,

There is currently no equivalent to ArcMap's adding annotation in the map layout in ArcGIS Pro. All annotation gets placed into a geodatabase...it is possible to add this option in ArcGIS Pro too?

Thanks,

Robert.

Re: Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro - Status changed to: Already Offered

WendyHarrison — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 21:41:06 GMT

Hi Robert,

What you are talking about was called Map Annotation in ArcMap. We've implemented Graphics layers in ArcGIS Pro for that functionality.

https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/mapping/layer-properties/graphics-layers.htm

when you're converting labels to annotation you have the choice whether to convert into a geodatabase or a graphics layer. See the topics below for information on converting to a graphics layer

https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/mapping/text/converting-labels-to-annotation.htm

https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/tool-reference/cartography/convert-labels-to-graphics.htm

Wendy

Re: Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro

Anonymous User — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 13:34:59 GMT

oh, ok!

Thank you so much Wendy!

Robert.

Re: Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro

KFung_TLC — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 14:36:12 GMT

But how can I "move" the graphical annotations if I choose to convert it to Graphics (I usually prefer a standalone annotation layer than tying it to geodatabase)? In ArcMap it's simple--once you convert labels to annotations you can just move the labels as if it is a free moving text. But in ArcGIS Pro I kept clicking on the "graphics" and nothing happens.

Did I missed anything? It make ArcGIS Pro clumsy.

Thanks

Ken

Re: Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro

KFung_TLC — Thu, 01 May 2025 15:58:25 GMT

So is there any updates about that function? I always want to "Convert Labels to Graphics" in order to make it a "standalone" annotation for each individual Map layout. But once they are on graphics I can no longer click on the label & make modifications. Sorry I keep coming back on this but could anyone here guide me to where to look at?

I really don't want to convert them to geodatabase because by doing so any changes will be affected to every map layout on my file.

Thanks

Ken

Re: Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro

WendyHarrison1 — Thu, 01 May 2025 21:57:47 GMT

You can edit graphic text the same as you can edit annotation features. Here's a link to the top level of the graphic layer documentation that should help.

Re: Convert labels to annotations in layout mode in ArcGIS Pro

KFung_TLC — Mon, 05 May 2025 15:24:58 GMT

Thanks Wendy for the gif demo. I realize I forgot to notice the "graphics" on the toolbar (& needs activation) to make it work. It's very helpful.

Ken