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Described here is the usual flow and recommended best practice of adding new columns to any dictionary table.

1.As your dictionary is opened, the **DCT Explorer** displays a list of defined tables. The **Quick View** document tab is also displayed (by default to the right of the DCT Explorer), and divided into the **Fields**, **Keys** and **Relations** pads. From the Explorer, highlight (select) the table that you wish to add columns to.

2.In the **Fields** pad, press the **Add **button:

{{dctaddfieldbut.jpg|DCTAddFieldBut.jpg}}

The [[softvelocity datadictionary editor fieldeditor.htm|New Column Properties]] dialog appears.

3.On the **General** tab, type in the **Column** **Name**, choose **Data** **Type**, specify length in **Characters**.

4.Select the **Validity Checks **tab, and choose a field validation option.

5.Select the **Controls > Window **tab to specify how the field and its prompt appear as controls in your application windows and dialogs.

6.Select the **Controls >Report **tab to specify how the field will appear on printed reports.

The specifications on the **Window** and **Report** sub-tabs establish defaults for the field. You can always change the settings on a case by case basis.

7.Press **OK **to complete this field. In the **Fields** pad, press the **Add **button and define the next one.

The **New Column Properties** dialog appears again, ready for the next field.

8.Repeat steps 3 through 7 for additional fields within this file.

**See Also: [[how to add a column to the end of a group.htm|How to add a column to the end of a GROUP]]**

**Next:** [[how to create a key.htm|How to Create a Key]]