topic Re: Text vs. Symbols vs Text Symbols vs. Graphic Text vs. Graphics in ArcGIS Pro Questions

Text vs. Symbols vs Text Symbols vs. Graphic Text vs. Graphics

Craig_Eissler_Iceman — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 17:07:41 GMT

Hello, I'd like to be clearer about the Terminology I keep reading about as I'm working with ArcGIS Pro and also attempting to relay things correctly to my students. For instance:

I understand there are several Text types, like Labels, Annotation, Graphic Text, and a few others. And, I understand the differences between these.

But what are Text Symbols ...Are all Text types Text Symbols? ...Even Graphic Text? ....or is there a difference between what is a Symbol and what is a Graphic?

Thanks,
CCE

Re: Text vs. Symbols vs Text Symbols vs. Graphic Text vs. Graphics

VenkataKondepati — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 21:35:51 GMT

Great question. This confusion is very common, and it helps a lot to separate content from styling.

Short, clear way to explain it (and teach it):

Text Symbols are styles — they define how text looks (font, size, color, halo, background, callout, etc.).
Text types are things in the map — they define where the text comes from and how it behaves.

So:

Labels → dynamic text from attributes, styled by a text symbol
Annotation → stored features, styled by a text symbol
Graphic Text → manual text you place, styled by a text symbol

Yes. All text uses a Text Symbol, including Graphic Text.
The difference is behavior and storage, not appearance.

Symbol vs Graphic (simple rule):

A symbol = appearance (styling rules)
A graphic = a manually placed map element (which uses a symbol)

Text Symbols don’t exist on their own in the map — they’re reusable styling definitions applied to labels, annotation, and graphic text. This framing usually clicks quickly with students.

Re: Text vs. Symbols vs Text Symbols vs. Graphic Text vs. Graphics

Craig_Eissler_Iceman — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:56:16 GMT

Hi Venkata,

Great explanation -- thank you!