Adding populated layers

When you are loading a large dataset into ArcMap, or an entire geodatabase, it is not always possible to know which layers have data and which do not. The Add Populated Layers tool can be used to ensure that only feature classes that contain data are loaded in the map. The Add Populated Layers tool only adds populated feature classes to the table of contents in ArcMap. This prevents empty layers from being added to the map.

1. Start ArcMap.
2. On the main menu, click Customize > Toolbars > Production TOC Manager.
3. Click the drop-down arrow next to the Add Layers button and click Add Populated Layers.

   The Add Data dialog box appears.

4. Navigate to the dataset that contains the layers you want to add.
5. Click Add.

The layers in the dataset that contain data are added to the table of contents and are displayed in the map.