Understanding Builder Fields

In this article:

• Working with Variable Fields
• Working with Instructions Fields

In Actionstep Builder, there are two types of fields: Variable and Instruction. Each has rules about how they are used. 

Working with Variable Fields

Variables are the basic unit when inserted in a Word template or used in a Builder field (like a question prompt), the field name must be enclosed in curly and square brackets, like this: {[ ]}. They are used to determine and merge custom information about a client or matter in documents you are generating for them. There are several different types of variables: Text, Number, Date, True/False, Selection, and Object.

1. Variable names can include only letters, numbers and underscores.
2. When inserted in a Word template or used in a Builder field (like a question prompt), the variable field must be enclosed in curly and square brackets {[ ]}, like this:

   Word Template	Builder Field

3. Variables used in formulas or expressions do not need these brackets.
   
4. When including filters, punctuation, or formatting with a field, these come after the variable name and a pipe character:

Working with Instructions Fields

An instruction is used to tell Builder to perform a specific task within your template. Examples of instruction tasks include merging content if certain conditions are selected or inserting a list of information.

1. Instructions must be lowercase and one word, e.g., {[elseif]} vs. {[ELSE IF]}:
   
2. When inserted in a Word template or used in a Builder field (like a question prompt), the instruction field must be enclosed in curly and square brackets {[ ]}, like this:
   
3. When using a selection variable to test for a certain value as part of an instruction, the value must be referenced using two equals signs:
   
4. Conversely, when using a selection variable to test whether a certain value is NOT part of a condition, the value must be referenced using an exclamation point and a single equal sign:
   
5. If the opening instruction is on its own line, the closing instruction must also be on its own line. Similarly, if the opening instruction is inline, the closing instruction must also be:

   Inline

   Own Lines/Paragraphs

Related Articles:

• Getting to Know Builder Variable Types
• Creating Builder Variables
• Using If and List Instructions