Logically assigning values to polygons starting at top left using ArcGIS Desktop?

Question

I have a layer in which the order of the OBJECTID's is rather random.

How do I assign a new field in the data table that assign's number to each polygon based on it's position on the map?

I'd like to have the top left polygon have number 1 and then increment from left to right, top to bottom.

Answer 1

You can use Sort tool as follows:

Sort>> input your layer>> Field=Shape >> Spatial Sort Method = UL (Upper Left)

Result: new layer file with sorted features depending on spatial location.

Then; to add new sorted id in your new sorted shapefile>> add new filed (name e.g: id) >> calculate field >> python>> show code block

//add to the box above
rec=0 
def autoIncrement(): 
 global rec 
 pStart = 1  
 pInterval = 1 
 if (rec == 0):  
  rec = pStart  
 else:  
  rec += pInterval  
 return rec

---

 //add this line in the small box below
 autoIncrement()