# Predefined filters

Predefined filters are filter variables that you set up to help viewers explore data by selecting values without choosing variables from scratch.

These user filters remain visible in the filters side panel even after resetting, guiding viewers to analyse specific data dimensions consistently while reducing the hassle of navigating large datasets.

> [!NOTE]
>
> **Example**
>
> On a sales dashboard, set up predefined filters for Region, Product, and Sales Rep. Viewers can quickly populate these filters with relevant values rather than searching through all available variables.

## Creating a predefined filter

To add a predefined filter:

1. Open your dashboard and click **Edit**.
2. Click **Filters** to open the Filters side panel.
3. Under **Predefined Filters**, click **\+ Add Filter**.
4. In the **Select filter** dialogue, search for and select one or more variables. See [Working with filters](<https://help.apteco.com/en/orbit/dashboards/filtering/using-filters/index.md>).

   > **Note**
   >
   > Unlike dashboard filters or search filters, you only select the variable when creating a predefined filter. Viewers add their own values in view mode.
5. Click **Add**.

   Your filter variables appear under their respective tables in the side panel.
6. Rename any filter variable by expanding the **option menu** and clicking **Rename** Filter.
7. Add any additional filters by clicking **\+ Add Filter** again.

   > **Tip**
   >
   > Limit predefined filters to the most relevant variables that align with common analysis questions your viewers ask.
8. Click **Close**.
9. **Save** the dashboard.

Your predefined filters are now ready for viewers to add values.

## Using predefined filters in view mode

Dashboard viewers populate predefined filters with values from the **Filters** side panel.

1. In view mode, click **Filters**.
2. Under **User Filters**, locate the predefined filter variable.
3. Click **\+ Add Values**.
4. Configure the **Values** you want to filter by. See [Working with filters](<https://help.apteco.com/en/orbit/dashboards/filtering/using-filters/index.md>).

The dashboard filters according to the selected values.

> [!TIP]
>
> Reset a filter or filter group by clicking the filter reset icon next to your chosen variable.

## Predefined filters and reset behaviour

Predefined filters behave differently from regular user filters when resetting.

- Click **Reset** in the side panel or **Reset All** on your dashboard to remove the values from predefined filters.
- In view mode you can re-populate the filter with new values immediately.

This behaviour helps you explore different value combinations without repeatedly selecting variables.