What is a page layout?

A page layout (often referred to simply as a layout) is a collection of map elements organized on a virtual page designed for map printing. Common map elements include one or more data frames (each containing an ordered set of map layers), a scale bar, north arrow, map title, descriptive text, and a legend. For geographic reference, you can add grids or graticules.

Elements of a page layout
Elements of a page layout

Though page layouts can be exported and used electronically, they are primarily designed for printing. Page layouts can have either a landscape (wide) or portrait (tall) orientation. Page size varies depending on the specifications for the output. What you see on the layout is what you get if you print or export the map to the same page size.

A page layout can also be used to author pages of a map book.

Map book pages
Map book pages

Learn more about building map books with ArcGIS

Questions to consider when designing your layout

Here are some design considerations for working with map layouts:

Related Topics

2/12/2013