Inserting Variables

Variables are pre-set, non-formatted pieces of content that you can insert into a document or topic.

How to Insert a Variable

1. Open the document or topic.
2. Place your cursor where you want to add a variable.

3. Do one of the following, depending on the part of the user interface you are using:

   • Ribbon Select Insert > Variable.

   • Local Toolbar Click the face of the Insert a Variable button .

     OR

     Click the down arrow next to , then select More Variables.

   • Keyboard Shortcut On your keyboard press CTRL+SHIFT+V.
   • Right-Click Right-click in the editor and select Insert > Variable. This context menu option is available only when your cursor is located in certain places in the editor (e.g., not in a drop-down effect).

   The Variables dialog opens, with the variable set(s) on the left and the variables associated with the selected set on the right.

4. On the left, select the appropriate variable set.
5. On the right, select the variable you want to insert.

6. Click OK. The variable is added, with brackets surrounding it. The bracket shows the variable name and the variable definition (as long as markers are turned on and the set marker width allows it).

   You can adjust the marker width from the Show tags button to see more or less of the variable information, and you can also tell Contributor to turn off the variable names so that you only see the variable definition.

7. Click to save your work.