topic Re: Jenks Natural Breaks classification in ArcGIS Spatial Analyst Questions

Jenks Natural Breaks classification

ZacharyAsbury1 — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 01:42:11 GMT

I've been working with the slice tool using natural breaks studying drought. I've had no problem with the tool, but in need of the algorithm or equations used in the tool to discuss in a research paper I am currently working on. Any help would be appreciated!

Thanks,

Zack

Re: Hi all,

DanPatterson_Retired — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 01:46:38 GMT

Slice tool...

Jenks Natural Breaks optimization for classification

I have code somewhere in python but the references and Dr. Google should get you most of the way.

Check your distribution of your data and the number of breaks chosen to better understand how Jenks fits into the bigger scheme of classification

Re: Hi all,

curtvprice — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 03:37:13 GMT

I don't like Jenks, it's good for finding easy breaks, but for quantitative comparisons among maps I think other schemes (defined interval, quantile/histogram equalization, stdev) are more appropriate. Just my opinion.

Suggest an edit to your thread title: "Jenks Natural Breaks classification"

Re: Jenks Natural Breaks classification

XanderBakker — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 22:31:16 GMT

You can find the documentation of ArcGIS here:

Classifying numerical fields for graduated symbology—Help | ArcGIS Desktop

You will see a reference to Geospatial Analysis—A Comprehensive Guide, 3rd edition; © 2006–2009; de Smith, Goodchild, Longley and suggest to search for "Univariate classification schemes" which will bring you here:

Building Blocks of Spatial Analysis > Geometric and Related Operations > Classification and clustering (where you will probably have to do some reading...)