Nesting an AutoText allows one AutoText to reference another AutoText. This capability supports reuse of shared content across multiple templates or macros. Nested AutoTexts enable content to be maintained in a single location.
Nest an AutoText
- Open the AutoText Editor.
- In the lower pane, search for the AutoText you want to reference.
- Select Nest to insert a reference to the selected AutoText.
- The nested AutoText appears as a block element within the AutoText Editor.
Important notes
- If a referenced AutoText is renamed or deleted, existing references become invalid and the nested content will no longer appear when the AutoText is used.
- Nested AutoText are displayed in the parent AutoText as locked, uneditable block elements. Inline edits to nested content are not supported from the parent AutoText.
Difference between Nesting and Copy and Paste
| Nesting | Copy and Paste |
|---|---|
| Creates a dynamic reference to another AutoText. | Duplicates content into a new or existing AutoText. |
| Updates to the referenced AutoText automatically apply to all Templates or Macros that use it. | The copied content can be edited independently. |
| Nested content cannot be edited inline. | Changes to the original AutoText do not propagate, which may result in variation over time. |
General guideline
- Use Nesting for shared, standardized content that should be centrally maintained.
- Use Copy and Paste when creating a one-off or intentionally customized variation.