# Data tables

URL: https://docs.sparklayer.io/help/forms/data-tables

Keep reusable lists in SparkLayer Forms data tables, import rows from CSV and use them as options for choice fields or as lookup data in workflows.

> **Quick summary**
>
> - A data table is a simple spreadsheet inside Forms: columns define the data, rows hold the records, and views filter rows and choose columns.
> - Columns can be **Text**, **Number** or **Date**. You can add rows by hand, import them from CSV and export them to CSV.
> - Use a data table as the options for a select, radio or multiple choice field. You can also look up its rows in calculations, conditions and workflows.
> - Data tables have their own screen under Forms, at **Forms > Data tables** in the SparkLayer Dashboard ([open](https://app.sparklayer.io/forms/tables)). Like Forms, they're only in the SparkLayer Dashboard, not in the SparkLayer Wholesale app in Shopify admin.

## How it works

A data table keeps a list in one place, so several forms can use it and you only update it once. Use one when you want to:

- Fill select, radio or multiple choice fields from a central list
- Reuse the same data across forms
- Look up rows and values in calculations, conditions and workflow logic
- Keep form logic simpler by managing data in one place

Common examples include:

| Table | What it's for |
| --- | --- |
| **Sales territories** | Postcodes to reps, so new applicants land with the right agent. |
| **Approved tax numbers** | Check a buyer's VAT number during registration. |
| **Stockists** | Your retailers, for a store finder or approval checks. |

Others include product lists, branch or store locations, pricing bands, internal reference codes, and approved option lists for advanced forms.

## Create a data table

1. In the SparkLayer Dashboard, go to **Forms > Data tables** in the SparkLayer Dashboard ([open](https://app.sparklayer.io/forms/tables)) and click **Create table**.
2. Name the table, then add the columns you need, choosing **Text**, **Number** or **Date** for each.
3. Add rows by hand, or import them from a CSV file.

You can export the table's rows to CSV at any time.

Once your table is ready, use it in a form.

## Use a data table in a form

### As options for a choice field

Fill a select, radio or multiple choice field from the table, instead of typing the options:

1. Select the field and open **Options**.
2. Switch to **Data source** and click **Select data source...**.
3. In the reference picker, open **Data Tables** and select your table.
4. Choose the column to show as the **Option label field**.

See [Use references as options](https://docs.sparklayer.io/help/forms/data-references.md#use-references-as-options).

### As lookup data

In a workflow calculation, condition or other step, reference the table. Then [filter](https://docs.sparklayer.io/help/forms/data-references.md#filter-references) it to the rows you need, for example the row for the customer's country.

## Example: a products table

A form asks customers which products they want samples of. Instead of typing the product list into the field, keep it in a data table:

1. Create a **Products** data table with columns for product name, SKU, category and price.
2. Add a row for each product, or import them from a CSV file.
3. On the form, add a **Multiple choice** field and set its options to the **Products** table, with the product name as the **Option label field**.

When your range changes, update the table once, and every form that uses it shows the new list. You can use the same rows later in workflow logic or calculations.

## Next steps

- [Data references](https://docs.sparklayer.io/help/forms/data-references.md): Use data table rows as field options and look them up in workflows
- [Field types](https://docs.sparklayer.io/help/forms/field-types.md): The choice fields that can take their options from a data table
- [Form workflows](https://docs.sparklayer.io/help/forms/workflows.md): Use your table data in calculations, conditions and other steps