Variable types

Understand the different variable types and when to use each one.

Variable types control how Oculon displays and interprets values. Choosing the right type makes the model easier to read and helps downstream reports behave consistently.

Common variable types

Type	Use Case
Number	Use for counts, units, and general numeric values.
Currency	Use for revenue, cost, cash flow, and other monetary values.
Percent	Use for margin, conversion rate, growth rate, and share metrics.
Date	Use when the output is a date or a date-based marker.
Boolean	Use for true or false logic in formulas or workflow flags.

What the type changes

The type affects formatting, not just appearance. Currency and percent variables can carry different default display expectations from plain numbers. Date and boolean fields also communicate different intent to collaborators.

How to choose

Pick the type that matches the question you want the model to answer. If the same line is being used to make a financial decision, make the format obvious to the reader.

Keep formats consistent

Within the same section of a model, use the same type and precision rules for similar variables. Consistency reduces review errors and makes comparisons easier.