topic Shape_Area vs Area (geodesic) vs Area which one is more accurate and which one should be used? in ArcGIS Pro Questions

Shape_Area vs Area (geodesic) vs Area which one is more accurate and which one should be used?

Ed_ — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 19:16:52 GMT

So as we know Pro adds a `Shape_Area` attribute whenever a polygon is created. In regard to this I have the following two questions:

Why `Shape_Area` and `Area (geodesic)` values are slightly different even though there units are the same?
Secondly, out of `Shape_Area`, `Area (geodesic)` and `Area`, which one is more accurate and which one should be preferred? Or maybe where does it make sense to use either of the three?

Re: Shape_Area vs Area (geodesic) vs Area which one is more accurate and which one should be used?

BarryNorthey — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 22:29:06 GMT

This might help:

Understanding Geodesic Buffering

Re: Shape_Area vs Area (geodesic) vs Area which one is more accurate and which one should be used?

Ed_ — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 17:40:46 GMT

Thank you, this does help a bit, so is shape_area more accurate or Area (geodesic)? The data in question is using UTM Zone coordinates and both Areas have the same units i.e., square feet.