topic Re: attribute field starts with a number in ArcGIS Pro Questions

attribute field starts with a number

Anonymous User — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 20:48:08 GMT

Wondering if anyone has an explanation for this. Most of the field names in my attribute table are numbers. When I try to add a new field for this year (2023) hitting a number key on the keyboard doesn't even register (I've always been taught that fields cannot start with a number). If I open catalog they have an F in front of the year. So what gives?

Re: attribute field starts with a number

RhettZufelt — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 21:13:30 GMT

That is weird. Normally see that when one brings data in from some other table source (Excel) that has numeric column names and Pro automagically adds the 'F' in front of it. However, "normally" the Fields dialog will show you the F name for the column name and the number is in the Alias field.

Re: attribute field starts with a number

DanPatterson — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 21:31:00 GMT

The addition of the F is an attempt to become accommodating to data that doesn't conform to the rules. It worked in your case. To add additional fields, carry on the hidden naming convention (eg. F2023)