Illustrator

Use data sets

A data set is a collection of variables and associated data. When you create a data set, you capture a snapshot of the dynamic data that is currently displayed on the artboard. You can switch between data sets to upload different data into your template.

The name of the current data set is displayed at the top of the Variables panel. If you change the value of a variable so that the artboard no longer reflects the data stored in the set, the name of the data set is displayed in italic type. You can then create a new data set, or you can update the data set to overwrite the saved data with the new data.

Create a new data set

 Click the Capture Data Set button  in the Variables panel. Alternatively, choose Capture Data Set from the Variables panel menu.

Switch between data sets

 Select a data set from the Data Set list in the Variables panel. Alternatively, click the Previous Data Set button  or the Next Data Set button .

Apply the data on the artboard to the current data set

 Choose Update Data Set from the Variables panel menu.

Rename a data set

 Edit the text directly in the Data Set text box. Alternatively, double-click the words Data Set: (to the left of the Data Set text box), enter a new name, and click OK.

Delete a data set

 Choose Delete Data Set from the Variables panel menu.