Formatted editing refers to the use of a template while editing a data set within the Formatted Data Editor. Data sets can be opened in the editor with a template associated to it, or with no template at all. Using templates enhances the effectiveness of editing a data set by presenting the information in a format that is easier to work with. If no template is specified, all records within the data set are treated as having single alphanumeric fields for the entire width of the record. This type of editing is called character editing.
When working with templates, you may find that it is difficult to find one template that works with an entire data set. If this situation occurs, the use of multiple templates may be necessary to meet all of your editing needs. The Formatted Data Editor supports the use of only one template at a time. In order to change the template, the current edit session must first be ended, then restarted after the associated template has been changed.
To associate a template with a data set and open a formatted edit session, see Template association.