# Insert dates, counters, and dynamic text

[Canonical article](https://slides.com/docs/variables)

Variables let text display information that can change from one deck, slide, or viewing date to another. They are useful for reusable titles and bylines, dates, and slide counters.

## Insert a variable

1. Double-click a text block to edit its contents.
2. Place the cursor where the value should appear.
3. Select **Insert Variable** (`{}`) from the text toolbar.
4. Choose a variable from the menu.

The menu shows the current value of each variable so you can choose the right one before inserting it.

<img src="https://static.slid.es/help/variables/insert-variable-menu-f7a6caaf.jpg" alt="Insert variable menu open in the text editing toolbar" width="1280" height="800">

You can also type a variable directly by placing its name between double curly braces. For example, `{{title}}` displays the deck title.

The variable syntax is visible while you edit the text. Slides displays the resolved value when you stop editing and when the presentation is viewed.

## Available variables

| Variable | Value |
| --- | --- |
| `{{author}}` | The deck author's name |
| `{{title}}` | The deck title |
| `{{today}}` | The current date, formatted for the viewer |
| `{{slide}}` | The current slide's position across the complete deck |
| `{{slideCount}}` | The total number of slides |
| `{{hslide}}` | The current horizontal slide number |
| `{{vslide}}` | The current slide's position in its vertical stack |
| `{{hslideCount}}` | The number of horizontal slides |

For example, add `{{slide}} / {{slideCount}}` to a text block to create a counter that stays accurate as the deck changes.

Variables inherit the surrounding text formatting. If you type a name that Slides does not recognize, the original text remains visible so you can correct it.