Attribute Query
An attribute query selects geographic features from a dataset based on their non-spatial properties, using logical expressions to filter records by field values. It is a fundamental GIS operation for data exploration, analysis, and map composition.
Overview An attribute query filters geographic features based on their descriptive properties stored in the attribute tableAttribute TableAn attribute table is a tabular database component of a GIS dataset that stores descriptive information about geograp... rather than their spatial location. Using SQL-like expressions, analysts can select features matching specific criteria such as population greater than 50,000, land use type equal to commercial, or road classification matching highway. Attribute queries are one of the most frequent operations in GISGISGeographic Information Systems (GIS) enable users to analyze and visualize spatial data to uncover patterns, relation..., enabling targeted analysis and focused map display.
Query Syntax
Attribute queries use structured expressions that reference field names, comparison operators, and values. Standard operators include equals (=), not equals (<>), greater than (>), less than (<), LIKE for pattern matching, IN for matching against a list of values, BETWEEN for range queries, and IS NULL for identifying missing values. Compound expressions combine multiple conditions with AND, OR, and NOT operators. Most GISGISGeographic Information Systems (GIS) enable users to analyze and visualize spatial data to uncover patterns, relation... platforms support standard SQL WHERE clause syntax for attribute queries.
Applications
Attribute queries support a wide range of GISGISGeographic Information Systems (GIS) enable users to analyze and visualize spatial data to uncover patterns, relation... workflows. Data exploration uses queries to understand dataset content and identify records of interest. Thematic mapping applies query expressions as definition queries to display only relevant features, such as showing only highways on a road map. Analysis workflows use attribute queries to isolate study populations, such as selecting census tracts with poverty rates above a threshold. Data quality assurance uses queries to find records with missing, invalid, or inconsistent attribute values.
Combining with Spatial Queries
The real analytical power emerges when attribute queries are combined with spatial queries. For example, selecting all commercial properties (attribute) within a flood zone (spatial) or identifying hospitals (attribute) within 30 minutes drive time of an incident (spatial). This combination enables precise multi-criteria analysis that accounts for both the characteristics and locations of features.
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