> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/data-models/financial-planning/creating-the-data-model.md).

# Creating the Data Model

If you have correctly set up the structure in the Financial Accounts, created the planning category-year combination in the Planning Categories, and configured the appropriate Manual Input reports, you will be ready to start building your model. This comprehensive setup ensures that all necessary data is in place, enabling you to create dynamic budgets and forecasts tailored to your organization’s needs.

## **Manual Data Entry**

In this screen, you create a planning model by filling in the general ledger accounts that have their "Source for Planning" set to Input. Accounts configured with a set formula cannot be adjusted in this screen and will appear as a grey precalculated line. 

Manual Data Entry in Smartbooks is designed to be intuitive and flexible. White rows indicate the accounts available for manual data entry. You can enter a value directly by clicking on an individual cell; once saved, these hard-coded cells will appear in light blue. Alternatively, you can hard-code an entire row by clicking on the GL account name on the left. This approach sets a consistent value for the row while still allowing you to override individual cells if necessary, accommodating fluctuations in specific months.

Additionally, you can copy data from spreadsheets or Excel into Smartbooks. To do this, first convert the numbers in your source file to the General format. Once converted, you can copy and paste entire rows or blocks of rows, provided that the GL accounts are in the same order as they appear in your spreadsheet.

## Dynamic budgeting with formulas 

In addition to setting the planning to a formula at the GL account level (see Defining the model), you can also create formulas directly within the Manual Input screen. This can be done for entire rows or individual cells. However, if you don't need different formulas for each year or custom overrides per cell, we recommend creating the formula at the GL level. This centralizes your formula management and reduces the risk of forgetting to update the formula on individual sheets.

To start using formulas, navigate to the Manual Input screen and click on a cell. You can then enter a formula in the input bar. We recommend using the Formula Editor, which is accessible by clicking on the summation operator located just below the Save button. Once you click on the summation operator, you'll enter a screen displaying all available options for functions. In this screen, you can click the Insert Function button to access a guided walkthrough of the available options. The system will present a list of accounts you can reference and allow you to choose the time period for the calculation. For an explanation of the available functions and examples of their usage, please refer to our Formulas section.