In this chapter, we covered how to craft a model of an analysis and export it to a script. After discussing the script, we adjusted the script to include a results analysis and summation, which was outputted to a CSV file. In particular, we discussed how to use ModelBuilder to create an analysis and export it as a script, and how to adjust the script to be more Pythonic. We also briefly touched on the use of Search Cursors, which will be covered in greater detail in Chapter 5, ArcPy Cursors – Search, Insert, and Update. Also, we saw how built-in modules such as the CSV module can be used along with ArcPy to capture analysis output in formatted spreadsheets.

In the next chapter, we will discuss how to create more complex scripts and build functions to avoid repeating code. These functions will make it possible to write code once and use it forever. This reuse of code will demonstrate how Python goes beyond automation of analysis to become a new productivity toolset.