data-modeling

# Glide Data Modeling

## Key Concept: Column-Based Calculations

**IMPORTANT**: All calculations in Glide are built in the Data Editor by adding computed columns that build off one another. Unlike spreadsheets with cell formulas, Glide uses a column-based computation model.

To build complex calculations:
1. Create intermediate computed columns
2. Chain columns together (one column references another)
3. Build up to your final result step by step

Example: Calculate total with tax
1. Column: `Subtotal` (Math: Price * Quantity)
2. Column: `Tax` (Math: Subtotal * 0.08)
3. Column: `Total` (Math: Subtotal + Tax)

## Column Types Overview

### Basic Columns (Data Storage)

| Type | Description | Use Case |
|------|-------------|----------|
| **Text** | String data | Names, descriptions |
| **Number** | Numeric values | Prices, quantities |
| **Boolean** | True/False | Flags, toggles |
| **Image** | Image URL | Profile photos, product images |
| **Date & Time** | Timestamps | Due dates, created at |
| **URL** | Web links | External resources |
| **Row ID** | Unique identifier | **Primary key** - add to every table first |
| **Rich Text** | Formatted text | Long descriptions |
| **Email** | Email addresses | Contact info |
| **Phone Number** | Phone format | Contact info |
| **Duration** | Time duration | Task duration |
| **Emoji** | Emoji picker | Reactions, status |
| **Multiple files** | File array | Attachments |
| **Multiple images** | Image array | Photo galleries |

### Computed Columns (Calculations)

| Type | Description | Use Case |
|------|-------------|----------|
| **Math** | Arithmetic calculations | Totals, percentages |
| **Template** | Text concatenation | Display names, labels |
| **If-Then-Else** | Conditional logic | Status labels, flags |
| **Query** | Query other tables | Cross-table data |
| **Relation** | Link rows between tables | Relationships |
| **Lookup** | Get values via relation | Related data |
| **Rollup** | Aggregate related data | Sums,