Insert a Variable

You can insert a variable into questions, answers, feedback, rationale, graphs, and equations.  

To insert a variable into a question, answer, feedback, or rationale by typing the variable:

1. Create or edit the question to which you want to add a variable.

2. Click to position the cursor in the location you want the variable inserted.

3. Type the variable name in the text surrounded by two number signs on either side of it (e.g., ##VAR1##).

4. To view the current value of the variable, click the Preview tab.

5. To recalculate variables for the current question, select Recalculate Variables from the Tools menu.

To insert a variable into question, answer, feedback, or rationale using the menu option:

1. Create or edit the question to which you want to add a variable.

2. Click to position the cursor in the location you want the variable inserted.

3. Choose Insert Variable from the Insert menu.
   
   Note: You can also enter a variable by typing the variable name in the text of the question surrounded by two number signs on either side of it (e.g., ##VAR1##).

4. Click to highlight the variable you want to insert.

5. Click Insert. The variable is inserted into the word processor, and the variable name displays.

6. To view the current value of the variable, click the Preview tab.

7. To recalculate variables for the current question, select Recalculate Variables from the Tools menu.

To include a variable in an equation editor equation:

1. Create or edit the question to which you want to add the equation.

2. Click to position the cursor in the location you want the equation inserted.

3. Select Insert Equation from the Insert menu.

4. Create your equation as desired, using the various equation templates within the editor.

5. Click to position the cursor in the location you want the variable inserted.

6. Click the Normal text button .

7. Enter the variable name with two number signs on either side of it (e.g., ##VAR1##).

8. Click OK to record your equation.

9. Select Recalculate Variables from the Tools menu. The variables in your equation will be replaced by values.

To include a variable in an graph:

1. Create or edit a graph.

2. Place the cursor in the field where you want the variable inserted.
   
   Note: You can add a variable to any of the fields in the graph or layer dialog boxes except the Width and Height.

3. Enter the variable name with two number signs on either side of it (e.g., ##VAR1##).
   
   Note: The variable you reference must be defined for the question or the preface associated with the question.

4. Click OK to record the changes to the graph.

5. Select Recalculate Variables from the Tools menu to update the variable values in your graph.