An ArcGIS analyst discovers an error in an input dataset. What should the analyst do to ensure the model uses the edited data the next time it runs?

In this scenario, the most appropriate action for the analyst to take is to validate the model after discovering an error in the input dataset. Validation in ArcGIS is essential as it ensures that the model is utilizing the most current versions of the datasets and that any modifications made are recognized by the system. When a dataset is edited, simply saving the changes may not suffice, as the model needs to be aware of the changes made to ensure they are taken into account during execution.

Validation checks the integrity of the model, verifies the relationships between inputs and outputs, and ensures that the model can run successfully with the current datasets. This process confirms that the inputs are valid for processing before the model is executed again.

In contrast, options like refreshing, although useful in certain contexts, may not fully ensure that all changes are properly integrated into the workflow. Closing and reopening the model window is unnecessary and can be inefficient. Saving is crucial but does not guarantee that the model recognizes the updated data without further actions, such as validation. Thus, validating is the correct step to ensure the revised data is incorporated.