To display only a subset of polygon features while retaining all records in the attribute table, what method should an analyst use?

Applying a definition query on the polygon layer is an effective method for displaying only a subset of features while retaining all records in the attribute table. A definition query allows the user to create a SQL-like expression that specifies which features to display based on certain attributes. This means that while the features that meet the defined criteria will be visible on the map, all records, including those that do not meet the criteria, remain intact and accessible in the attribute table.

This approach is particularly useful when an analyst wants to focus on specific areas or characteristics of the data without permanently altering the data or eliminating any records from view in the table. It enhances the analytical process by allowing for targeted visualization of the data while preserving the completeness of the dataset.

Other methods, such as employing a display filter or page query, do not achieve the same goal of retaining all records in the attribute table while limiting the displayed features. Display filters are often temporary and might affect the visibility settings more broadly. A page query, which can refer to specific portioning of data for layout purposes, typically does not apply directly to feature display in the same way a definition query does. Using a SQL expression directly with the layer might sound similar, but a definition query is specifically designed for this purpose within the