Zandbergen Paul A. Python Scripting for ArcGIS

Esri Press, 2013. — 368 p. — ISBN: 978-1-58948-282-1.Python Scripting for ArcGIS is a technical guide that provides a clear, step-by-step process for the creation of Python scripts to enhance ArcGIS 10.1 capabilities.
"Python scripting is a fundamental tool for GIS professionals to extend the functionality of ArcGIS and automate workflows," says author Paul A. Zandbergen. "You can use it to modify the existing capabilities of ArcGIS and create new ones."
Python Scripting for ArcGIS is a guide for experienced users of ArcGIS and students that are interested in learning how to create Python scripts. No previous programming experience is necessary.Python is the scripting language of choice for ArcGIS users because of these characteristics:
Simple and easy to learn
Free and open-source
Cross-platform compatible
Interpreted, not compiled
Object oriented
Zandbergen is an associate professor of geography at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque where he teaches classes in GIS and spatial analysis. His areas of expertise include GIS applications in criminology, economics, health, and ecology, as well as spatial and statistical analysis techniques using GIS.Learning the fundamentals of Python and geoprocessing
Introducing Python
Geoprocessing in ArcGIS
Using the Python window
Learning Python language fundamentals
Writing scripts
Geoprocessing using Python
Exploring spatial data
Manipulating spatial data
Working with geometries
Working with rasters
Carrying out specialized tasks
Map scripting
Debugging and error handling
Creating Python functions and classes
Creating and using script tools
Creating custom tools
Sharing tools