ArcGIS Basics - ArcCatalog vs. ArcMap
'Versus' is somewhat misleading. ArcCatalog and ArcMap are two complimentary programs and form the core of Desktop GIS for ArcGIS. These two interfaces are typically used at the same time. I like to compare the use of these interfaces to creating a report. As you write a report you have to switch between programs. For instance, if you need to add a graphic, then you might switch to a graphics program such as Adobe Photoshop, edit the image, save it, and then import it into your word processor.
This process is very much like the one used everyday by ArcGIS practitioners. For instance, while editing a shapefile (or feature class) in ArcMap, it may become necessary to create a complimentary shapefile in ArcCatalog, then import it into ArcMap and copy features from the first shapefile into the newly created one. Sound confusing? Hopefully not, but if it is, don't worry about it, the nice thing about becoming proficient at ArcGIS is that you are allowed to play!
In fact, perhaps the best way to learn new software, or new tricks, is not to over-concentrate on the results. If you are attempting something for the first time using ArcGIS (such as one of the tutorials on this site) don't worry if you get it wrong the first time. Learn from your mistakes and try again, because once you've done it correctly you'll probably find it much easier the second time.
Finally, if terms on this page prove confusing, then it probably means you need to spend a little more time learning the fundamentals of ArcGIS. For a couple of excellent resources, please see the previous page or click here.
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