Tables and layers can be added in the same way in ArcMap. You can use the Add Data button to search for a table or layer or you can drag any table or layer from the Catalog window into ArcMap.
- Click the Add Data button .
- Click the Look in arrow and navigate to the layer or table you want to add.
- Click the layer or table and click Add.
Attribute tables for feature layers are automatically loaded when the layer is added to the map. Tables without associated features are only displayed when the Table of Contents window is listed by source.