Using the Label Manager

The Label Manager lets you view and change labeling properties for all the label classes in your map. It enables you to specify and modify labels for layers without repeatedly visiting their property dialog boxes. The Label Manager also lets you manage the label classes within the map.

The Maplex for ArcGIS extension uses the same Label Manager as the standard ArcMap Label Engine, with the addition of new label placement options and functionality not available in the standard labeling user interface.

The image below shows the Label Manager with the Standard Label Engine enabled.

The image below shows the Label Manager with the Maplex Label Engine enabled. The only change is the Placement Properties box being enabled with Maplex labeling parameters.

Learn more about setting label placement properties using the Standard Label EngineLearn more about setting label placement properties using the Maplex Label EngineLearn more about displaying labels with symbols and label stylesLearn more about using SQL expressions to label certain featuresLearn more about using visible scale ranges to display labelsLearn more about the Labeling Summary dialog box

Steps:

1. Click the Label Manager button on the Labeling toolbar.
2. Check the box next to the layer you want to label.
3. Choose a label class under the layer.
4. Click the Label Field drop-down arrow and click the attribute field you want to use as a label.
Optionally, set any other label placement parameters for the label class.
5. Click OK.

Tip:

You can also use the Labels tab on the Layer Properties dialog box to set labeling properties.