Creating Your ESRI Account

Before creating an account, it's important to understand the two main types of ArcGIS accounts:

There are two ways to access StoryMaps:

Let's create your free Public Account:

1. Open your browser and go to: arcgis.com/home/signin.html →
2. Look for the "Create account" option at the bottom of the sign-in form.

You will be presented with a few options. It is critical that you choose the correct one for this workshop:

1. Locate the "Create a public account" box (usually on the left side).
2. Click the link: "Create an account ->" inside that box.

Enter your information to create the account.

1. First & Last Name: Enter your real name.
2. Email: Enter your personal email address.
3. Confirm Email: Retype to ensure accuracy.
4. Agreements: Review and check the terms of use.
5. Click Next: Proceed to finalize your account.

An activation link has been sent to your email address. It is currently waiting for you.

1. Go to your email inbox (check the "Promotions" or "Spam" folder if you don't see it).
2. Open the email from "Esri".
3. Click the activation link. This will confirm your account and log you in.

After clicking the activation link, you will be directed to a page to complete your profile. This is where you create your login credentials.

1. Username: Create a unique username (6-128 characters).
2. Password: Create a strong password.
3. Security Question: Select a question and answer for account recovery.
4. Create Account: Click the button to finish the process.

Now that your account is set up, let's access the StoryMaps platform:

1. Go directly to StoryMaps: storymaps.arcgis.com →
2. Click "Sign In" in the top right corner.

Method A: Personal Public Account (Recommended)

Use the credentials you just created.

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Use "ArcGIS login" section (Top): Enter your username and password here.

Method B: Organizational Account (Advanced)

If you belong to a university or organization with an ArcGIS subscription, you can sign in using your organization's URL prefix. This grants access to paid features and unlimited storage.

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How to use:
1. Expand the "Your ArcGIS organization's URL" section.
2. Enter your organization's prefix (e.g., if your org URL is utexas.maps.arcgis.com, enter utexas).
3. Click "Continue" to be redirected to your institution's login page.

❓ Landed on a "Welcome" Screen?

Sometimes, especially the first time you log in, you might be taken to the general ArcGIS Online welcome page instead of the StoryMaps dashboard.

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Action Required: Scroll down to the "Make your first maps and apps" section and click the "Make a story" card.

Before diving into building, take a moment to explore the helpful resources on the StoryMaps homepage (bottom left area):

Here's what you'll find on your StoryMaps dashboard: