The third step in formatting and structuring GIS data is to apply metadata standards to your data layers. Metadata are the data about the data, and they provide essential information about the source, quality, accuracy, and attributes of your data layers. Metadata standards are the rules and guidelines for creating and documenting metadata, and they ensure that your data layers are compatible and interoperable with other GIS users and applications. There are various metadata standards available, such as FGDC, ISO, or Dublin Core, and you should choose the one that best suits your project's needs and requirements. You can use metadata tools or editors, such as ArcCatalog or QGIS Metadata Editor, to create and edit metadata for your data layers. You should include at least the following metadata elements for each data layer: title, abstract, creator, date, format, identifier, language, rights, spatial reference, and contact information.
By following these best ways to format and structure GIS data, you will improve the quality, consistency, and usability of your GIS project. You will also enhance your communication and collaboration with other GIS users and stakeholders, and contribute to the advancement of environmental engineering knowledge and practice.