July 18, 2024
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Wildcards are a handy feature to easily substitute date values during time entry, on invoices, and in projects.

Using Wildcards

Wildcards can be used to insert date values in Memo fields during entry, on the footer of invoices, and to configure reusable project management templates.

When modifying a Memo field that supports wildcards, you can type ^ (carat) and the wildcard code to substitute text that corresponds to the wildcard used.

In the Work Description field in Time Sheet and Time Entry, Invoice Description field in Manual and Recurring Invoices, Invoice Description in Engagements, typing ^CY will enter the current year (e.g., 2024); typing ^PY will enter the prior year (e.g., 2023); typing ^CM will enter the current month (e.g., October); and typing ^PM will enter the prior month (e.g., September). Note that overriding the Invoice Description in Retainer Invoice or Invoice Review does not allow Wildcards to be used.

Wildcards can be used on invoice footers, which will substitute text when the invoice is created. In the Invoice Footer Message in General Settings, typing ^CN will enter the client’s name; typing ^ID will enter the invoice date; typing ^IN will enter the invoice number; and typing ^IA will enter the invoice amount. Note that overriding the footer in Invoice Review does not allow Wildcards to be used.

In Project Management, wildcards can be used in project templates, which will substitute text when they are used to create a new project. In the Project Template Name field, typing ^D will enter the cardinal day of the month (e.g., 1, 2, 3, etc.); typing ^DO will enter the ordinal day of the month (e.g., 1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.); typing ^M will enter the month (e.g., October); typing ^Q will enter the cardinal quarter (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or 4); typing ^QO will enter the ordinal quarter (e.g., 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th); and typing ^Y will enter the year (e.g., 2024). To see a list of available wildcards and examples, click the  (Show Wildcards) icon.

Using wildcards can increase the efficiency of data entry, and allows date-based templates to be easily configured.

Common Questions About Wildcards

Where can we use Wildcards?

Wildcards are limited to the Work Description field in Time Sheet and Time Entry, Memo field in Manual and Recurring Invoices, Invoice Description in Engagements, Invoice Footer Message in General Settings, and Template Name in Project Management.

Can we use multiple Wildcards in a single Memo?

Yes, you can use as many Wildcards as necessary.

Can we use Wildcards and Shortcuts in the same Memo?

Yes, any field that allows both Wildcards and Shortcuts can use them interchangeably.

See It in Action

Learn More

The following knowledge base articles contain additional information relating to Shortcuts:

• Invoice Settings
• Engagement Entry
• Time Sheet Entry
• Time Entry
• Manual Invoice
• Recurring Invoice
• Project Details