Create Thumbnails in ArcCatalog

ArcCatalog has so many features, it is difficult to keep up with them all.  One that is very helpful is the Create Thumbnail button.  This allows you to create a thumbnail image of a file so that it can be viewed from the Contents Tab instead of the default thumbnail.  The below example shows its application for a shapefile, but this can be applied to a variety of file types.  This quick snapshot can help the browsing process when you are looking for that certain file.

Follow these simple steps to create a thumbnail image for a file in ArcCatalog:

1. View the shapefile with the Preview Tab.

2. Zoom to desired view.

ArcCatalog gives you a few navigation tools.  You can create a full extent view or zoom in on certain features.

3. Press the create thumbnail button from the toolbar.

4. View the newly created thumbnail under the Contents Tab.

Learn more about ArcGIS in these excellent books:

GIS Tutorial

Getting to Know ArcGIS