A quick tour of setting output data symbology

When a model is run from its tool dialog box, you can specify how model outputs are to be symbolized when added to the ArcMap table of contents. This can be performed in two ways:

• Using a layer symbology file
• Using the Apply Symbology From Layer tool

Both techniques use a layer file ( .lyr) that defines the symbology used to draw output data when it is added to the display. When a layer file is used to define the symbology of tool outputs, it is referred to as a layer symbology file.

Learn more about creating a layer symbology file

Using a layer symbology file

When model outputs are added to the ArcMap table of contents, their symbology can be predefined by referencing a layer file (.lyr).

Model data variables have a Layer Symbology property wherein a layer file can be specified to define the symbology of the variable when it is added to the ArcMap table of contents.

Learn more about setting layer symbology for a model variable

Using the Apply Symbology From Layer tool

The Apply Symbology From Layer tool can be added to the end of a model to control the symbology of the model output. This technique is only valid when the model output variable is a feature layer, raster layer, TIN layer, or Network Analysis layer. For example, a feature class variable cannot be connected to the Apply Symbology From Layer tool. First, use the Make Feature Layer tool to convert the feature class to a feature layer, then connect the feature layer variable to the Apply Symbology From Layer and apply a symbology from an existing layer. There are equivalent tools to create raster, TIN, or Network Analysis layers from data on disk.

Learn more about setting symbology using the Apply Symbology From Layer tool