Layer Concept#

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Geoinformation systems (GIS) visualize data by stacking layers on top of one another to create maps. Every layer represents one set of information. This is a vital concept to understand since analysis, as well as visualisation of data, is based on it.

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Fig. 12 The layer concept in GIS applications. Source unknown. All rights reserved. This content is excluded from our Creative Commons license.#

Hide and show layers#

  • Check the check-box in the Layers panel on the bottom left:

Have you “lost” your layer?#

Right click on your layer -> Zoom to layer(s)

Move layers in the hierarchy#

  • Move a layer up and down in the Layer panel by drag-and-drop

  • Move a layer to the top: Right click on your layer –> Move To Top

Change Layer Name#

Right click on your layer –> Rename Layer

Layer properties#

Each layer has additional properties that you can view and customise. The most important are

  • Information: An overview of the layer name, file format, storage location, spatial extent, number of features (objects),…

  • Symbology: Display mode of the layer, style, transparency,…