> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.pluvo.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Grids

> We just released all new grids! Keep reading to learn your way around.

<Note>
  We just released all new grids! Keep reading to learn your way around.
</Note>

The grid is the heart of model-building in Pluvo. It’s where your financial structure comes to life.

## What Is a Grid?

A **grid** is the working area inside a [model](/modelling/features/models), where each **row represents a** [**variable**](/modelling/features/variables) and each **column represents time** (typically months).

Variables are the building blocks of your financial plan. Each one contains:

* A **forecast definition**: your planned value or formula.
* An **actuals definition**: pulled from your accounting system.
* A series of **time-based values**, shown by month, quarter, or year.

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/pluvo-02a06e95/0FuIyQcO0nALAUMz/images/modelling/10JaKJKIfI95DRACE3Nj.jpg?fit=max&auto=format&n=0FuIyQcO0nALAUMz&q=85&s=14caf12920659f4d3a7561a51e379c79" alt="" width="2304" height="942" data-path="images/modelling/10JaKJKIfI95DRACE3Nj.jpg" />

### Key Elements

#### Rows = Variables

Each row in the grid is a **variable**. Variables can be:

* **Drivers** – inputs like headcount, unit cost, or conversion rate
* **Metrics** – outputs like revenue, gross margin, or runway
* **Accounts** – actuals pulled directly from your GL

You can nest variables, group them, or apply dimensions (*coming soon*) to get more granular.

You can reorder or regroup variables by simply clicking and dragging them.

<Note>
  Right-click in the grid header and select "expand all row groups" to open all folders and sub-variables at once.
</Note>

#### Columns = Time

Columns show **time-based values** for each variable—typically broken down by month. The data in these time columns are referred to as *amounts.*

Using the `Amount Types` dropdown at the top of the grid, you can toggle between:

* Actuals
* Forecasts
* Variance (e.g., actual vs. forecast)

<img src="https://mintcdn.com/pluvo-02a06e95/0FuIyQcO0nALAUMz/images/modelling/ijW6xwoIQzwLXZPsjTlT.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=0FuIyQcO0nALAUMz&q=85&s=08d822b23afc0c6ec777cfda2102709f" alt="" width="330" height="292" data-path="images/modelling/ijW6xwoIQzwLXZPsjTlT.png" />

Use the `hide columns` drop down to hide/show specific columns.

Select `reset filter` to restore the default column layout.

#### ➕ Add Variables

Use the **“Add variable”** button to create a new driver, metric, or account row.

Each variable will have:

* A name and description
* A forecast definition
* An actuals definition

Read more about variable definitions on the [Variables](/modelling/features/variables) page.

#### Recalculate & Refresh

Pluvo recalculates models automatically when you update inputs or reload the page. You can click the refresh button in the top right to force the grid to reload.

### Best Practices

* Group related variables together (e.g., by department or cost center)
* Use dimensions to segment data without duplicating models *(coming soon)*
* Leverage sparklines for quick trend insights
* Keep forecast logic separate from actuals—Pluvo will compare them for you automatically

Want help structuring your first model or troubleshooting a formula? [Contact support](mailto:support@pluvo.io) or check out our Variables Guide.