How do I copy the coded value for a field and not the raw value?

Question

I am working with ArcGIS 10 and I have added a field in a feature class and am attempting to copy the text from another field's coded values, but the field calculator is simply copying the "code" text from the source field and not the "value" text from the domain rule. Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Try this tool: Calculate Domain Code Field

Update: Since the tool does the opposite of what you want, you can either tweak it to calculate the description instead of the coded value, or do it interactively:

1. Use Domain to Table (Management) to export the domain in question to a table
2. Use Add Join (Management) or the Join Data dialog to join the table to your feature class on the code field
3. Use Calculate Field (Management) or the Field Calculator dialog to calculate the field you want the descriptions to go in, entering the joined table's description field in the expression box.
4. (Optional) Remove the join and delete the table you created