Masking is a technique used to clarify dense or detailed map content by having the features of one layer hide, or mask, features of another layer where they overlap. A common use for masking is to mask features around annotation to ensure the text remains readable.
Use layer masking
You can mask the selected layer with the features from one or more mask sources in the map. For example, to mask administrative boundaries over a body of water, select the polygon feature layer containing the administrative area boundaries and check the box for the layer containing the water feature in the Masking drop-down menu.
To mask a layer, follow these steps:
- Choose one or more layers to be masked in the Contents pane.
- Click the contextual tab for the layer that will appear next to the Share tab.
- In the Drawing group, click Masking.
- In the drop-down menu, check one or more layers in the list. The layers with check marks will mask the selected layer.