12.4 Variables Definitions View

The Variable Definitions View is used to manage variable anywhere the tree. Variable definitions are created at specific nodes, although most definitions will be at the root node. The Variable Definitions View is a node-level view, so its contents reflect the context of the currently selected node. If you have not selected a node for a View which is node specific, no data can be presented.

Note that the easiest way to define variables at a specific node is covered in section Defining Variables at a Specific Node.

To open the Variable Definitions View:

  • Choose Views > Variable Definitions from the toolbar.

Below is an image of the Variable Definitions View from the Legal tutorial example model BreachOfContract-Clones.trex with the root node selected.

The main grid contains a grouped list of variable definitions. Groups can be collapsed and expanded. Two of the groups are:

  • Defined: This contains variable definitions at the selected node.

  • Undefined: This contains variables that are not defined at the selected node.

Note that most of the variables are defined at the root node with the exception of pJury_ColBad and pJury_CoalCause. Those variables are defined differently at the two strategy nodes to facilitate cloning. When the top strategy node Litigate - focus on bad coal issue is selected, you see the two variables defined at that node.

In addition, you can now see the Inherited group that contains variable definitions that are "inherited" from nodes to the left of the selected node.

Variable definitions can be added or edited within the grid to affect definitions at the selected node.

Variable Definitions View toolbar

Similar to the toolbar for the Variables View, the toolbar for the Variable Definitions View has a few common tools.

The functions associated with the icons are presented below and each function is described in subsequent sections.

  • Add Variable Definition - add a variable then define it at the selected node

  • Edit Variable Definition - edit the selected variable definition

  • Delete Variable Definition - delete the selected variable definition

  • Cut Variable Definition - cut the selected variable definition with the ability to copy it to a different node

  • Copy Variable Definition - copy the selected variable definition with the ability to copy it to a different node

  • Paste Variable Definition - paste a definition cut or copied from one node and paste it to the selected node

  • Turn Highlight On/Off - highlight all references to the selected variable within the model

  • Filter variables (Clear) - show only definitions that meet the filtering text

  • Enter an asterisk before the expression to look for text in the middle of the variable name rather than the front. For example, if you entered "*local" into the Filter Text, the variables cost_LocalCancer, cLocal and p_LocalToMets would be shown.