What file format does ArcGIS Pro use for project files?

ArcGIS Pro utilizes the .aprx file format for project files, which encapsulates all elements associated with a project, including maps, layouts, and connections to data sources. This format is specifically designed to manage the complexities of various geographic data, allowing users to easily save and share their projects, while maintaining all necessary components for analysis and visualization.

In contrast, the .map format is not a standard file type for ArcGIS Pro. Instead, it is more commonly associated with previous versions of ArcGIS, mainly ArcMap. The .proj format typically refers to generic project file formats used in various applications, but does not specifically pertain to ArcGIS Pro. GeoJSON, while a useful format for representing geographic features, is primarily used for data interchange and does not serve as a project file format within ArcGIS Pro. Understanding the unique functions and purposes of these various file formats is essential for effective data management within the software.