Applying style files (.style files)

When data is added to ArcGIS it won't have any pre-defined symbology. You can either set up your own symbology for each layer or, if available, you can apply style files that have previously been created.  For information on setting up your own symbology please refer to the applying basic symbology topic.

Setting up symbology can be time consuming; an alternative is to make use of a pre-defined symbology definitions.

Instructions on how to apply legend (.avl) files and layer (.lyr) files are also available.

Using a .style file in ArcGIS

1. Bring up the Style Manager window by selecting: Customize > Style Manager:
   
2. In the Style Manager window press the Styles... button:
   
3. Press the Add Style to List... button in the Style References window:
   
4. Browse to the .style file you wish to use and press Open
5. Ensure the checkbox is selected against this file and press OK
   
6. Close the Style Manager window
7. Bring up the Properties window for one of the layers and go to the Symbology tab
8. Under the Categories heading (on the left hand side) select Match to symbols in a style
9. In the Value Field drop down select the appropriate attribute that you will use to match to stiles in the .style file, in this case we're using the attribute called 'description'
10. in the Match to symbols in Style field use the drop down to select the relevant style file, in this case we're using a file called MarineThemes.style
11. Press the Match Symbols button
12. Press OK
    
13. Your data should now be drawn using the style from the .style file

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