> 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/faq/how-is-the-projection-calculated.md).

# How is the projection calculated?

Projections in Smartbooks are calculated by combining **actual data** with **planning data** for the selected planning category and period.

For periods where actuals are available, Smartbooks uses the actual booked values. For future periods, the system uses values from the selected budget or forecast.

The projection therefore consists of:

* Actuals for completed periods
* Budgeted or forecasted values for remaining periods

#### Projection source configuration

The source used for projections can be configured **per entity** and **per consolidation**.

In **Settings → General**, you can select which planning category should be used as the projection source. 

<figure><img src="https://1846213233-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FswBFWX9ni1arN3lAqgKQ%2Fuploads%2FZCuRgdwrL3YPfjQ7iHsX%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=eb51420b-7378-428d-9d2c-87a63dce278a" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

This allows you to:

* Use different projection sources per entity
* Use a different projection source at consolidation level
* Switch projections between budget and forecast scenarios

Once configured, Smartbooks automatically applies the selected source when calculating projections in reports.