> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.inforiver.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.inforiver.com/formula-syntax/identifiers/columns.md).

# COLUMNS

The **COLUMNS** identifier returns a reference to a specific column in the report. Type 'COLUMNS.' to enable a dropdown with a list of all the columns available in the visual. 

<figure><img src="/files/vZeNa577vq6XH0IA1yx7" alt=""><figcaption><p>Columns reference</p></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
'Columns' is applicable only when inserting visual measures.
{% endhint %}

### Example

We have a discount value for all months. If we want the discount value of January month to be applied for all months, then it can be achieved using the columns function as shown below.

<figure><img src="/files/hyGFUrcpgADmWNdfqC3I" alt=""><figcaption><p>Applying COLUMNS. reference</p></figcaption></figure>


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