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

[Craig_Eissler_Iceman]

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

[VenkataKondepati · Accepted solution]

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.

[Craig_Eissler_Iceman]

Hi Venkata,

Great explanation -- thank you!