The 9 Types of HotDocs Variables

There are 9 types of variables:

• Text
• Number
• Date
• True/False
• Multiple-choice
• Computation
• Clause – not talking about
• Dialog
• Personal Information  – not talking about – stored in registry

Text Variable – You can enter any text string in this type of variable, including letters, numbers and symbols.  Text variables include items such as names and address.  Telephone numbers, SSNs, or other “numbers” which should not be used to add, subtract, multiply, etc. are created as text variables

Number Variable – Numbers can be formatted to restrict maximum or a minimum values, as currencies, or set to show a certain number of decimal places.  Typically numbers are used to represent text that will be used in a calculation.  Because social security and telephone numbers are never used in calculations and typically require a specific format, they are considered Text variables not numbers.

Date Variable – You can use the popup calendar to enter a date, or enter in as 14 Nov 2003, 11 14 2003, or November 14, 2003.  Unless you change your options, it will require a 4-digit year.

HINT: To enter “today’s date” in a date variable, simply enter “t.”

True/False Variable – You can select from either check boxes or radio buttons.  They can be grouped together, so they resemble a multiple choice, or can require a “Yes” or “No” answer.

Multiple Choice Variable – This type of variable allows you to select from a list of options, and often included an “Other” choice where you can enter in additional information.  Depending on the variable, you can choose one, or multiple selections.  This type of variable can appear as a drop down list [CLIENT STATE] or as a list, with [SALUTATION] or without [MARITAL STATUS] columns.

HINT: Single selection multiple-choice variables are radio (circle) buttons and multiple choice variables have square buttons.

Computation – You can use a Computation variable to calculate number, date, true/false, and text values based on answers a user enters. The computed value can then be merged into the assembled document. Computation variables can also be used to group several instructions or expressions for insertion into a template, which results in quicker assembly.

Dialog – By default, when HotDocs displays variables in a HotDocs interview, each variable is shown in a dialog by itself. While this approach may be sufficient for some, you may want to group related variables and present them in a custom dialog.

Learn to Create HotDocs Templates and Text Variables

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