---
title: "Formula Operator"
slug: "formula-operator"
updated: 2025-09-26T01:41:41Z
published: 2025-09-26T01:41:41Z
canonical: "docs.unqork.io/formula-operator"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.unqork.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Formula Operator

UDesignerClassic Designer

## Overview

The **Formula operator** calculates data values using an expression. Let's say you're calculating the cost of an insurance plan over time and you know the value for one month. To find the value for a year, you use a Formula operator to multiply your original value by 12. Another common use for this operator is to calculate percentages.

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/formulaoperator1_thumb_0_0.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

You have two options when creating a formula:

- Creating a static formula using the Formula's Info window.
- Creating a formula with dynamic values using the operator's argument port.

You’ll find the Formula operator under the [Table](/v1/docs/tableoperators) group to the left of the [Data Workflow](/v1/docs/data-workflow-component) canvas.

## About the Info Window

And here's a breakdown of each setting in the Formula operator's Info window:

| Setting | Description |
| --- | --- |
| Category | Grayed out and non-adjustable setting indicating the operation type. |
| Label | The name applied to the operator. This label displays within the workflow. Labels should be user-friendly and well associated with the role of the operator. |
| Preserve Argument Type | When selected, this setting ensures the argument data type is respected when the operator executes. |
| Formula/Expression | The formula or expression you want to apply to your data. For example, use `A` to represent your original data. Your original data is anything you bring in through the operator's input port. Let's say you want to multiply your data by `12`. You'll enter `=A*12` in this field. If you want to use an argument instead of a set value in your formula, use `_arg`. The above formula as an argument is the following: `=A*arg`. In this example, `_arg` takes the place of `12`. Whatever value is set in the argument port goes in its place. |

## Adding a Formula Operator

This example calculates the total insurance cost based on the number of months of coverage that is stored in the [Dropdown](/v1/docs/dropdown-component) component. Your end-user has the choice of how long they need coverage. From there, a [Data Workflow](/v1/docs/introduction-to-data-workflow) uses a Formula operator to calculate the cost of coverage.

### Configure the Text Field Components

Begin by configuring two [Text Field](/v1/docs/text-field-component) components that store the monthly cost of insurance and the total cost based on how many months of coverage the end-user decides on. As the values are always monetary, you'll set a dollar sign as the prefix. The end-users do not need to enter values in these Text Field components, so disable user input for both of them.

1. Drag and drop two **T****ext Field** components onto your canvas.
2. In the Property ID and Label Text fields, enter the following:

|  | Property ID | Label Text |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | monthlyCost | Monthly Cost |
| 2 | totalCost | Total Cost |
3. In the **Prefix** field, enter `$`.
4. From the **Input Behavior** drop-down, select **Disable User Input**.
5. **Save Component** each component as you add it.

### Configure the Initializer Component

Next, add an [Initializer](/v1/docs/initializer-component) component so that every time an end-user opens a new submission, the component places a value of `1000 `in the first Text Field component. Doing so lets the Initializer component manage the monthly cost. If you want to set a new monthly cost, you can update the value in the Initializer component.

1. Drag and drop an **I****nitializer** component onto your canvas, placing it above your **monthlyCost** **T****ext Field** component.
2. In the Property ID and Canvas Label Text fields, enter `initSetCost`.
3. From the **Trigger Type** drop-down, select **New Submission**.
4. In the Outputs table, enter the following:

|  | Property ID | Type | Value |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | monthlyCost | value | 1000 |

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/FORMULAoperatorinit_thumb_0_0.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)
5. Click **Save Component**.

### Configure the Dropdown Component

Next, add a [Dropdown](/v1/docs/dropdown-component) component that lets your end-user select how many months they want coverage. This component serves as the argument for your Formula operator.

1. Drag and drop a **![Dropdown Component Icon](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/chevron_down_grey_icon(1).png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)** **Dropdown** component onto the canvas, placing it between your **monthlyCost** **T****ext Field** component and **totalCost** **T****ext Field** component.
2. In the Property ID field, enter **coverageLength**.
3. In the Label Text field, enter `How many months of coverage do you need?`.
4. Set the **Label** and **Value** as follows:

|  | Label | Value |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | 6 | 6 |
| 2 | 12 | 12 |
| 3 | 18 | 18 |
| 4 | 24 | 24 |
5. Click **Save Component**.

### Configure the Data Workflow Component

Lastly, add a [Data Workflow](/v1/docs/data-workflow-component) component that brings in the monthly cost and the end-user's selection from the Dropdown component. Then, a configure a Formula operator to calculate the total cost. The final value will output to your Text Field component.

1. Drag and drop a **D****ata Workflow** component onto your canvas, placing it below your other components.
2. In the Property ID and Canvas Label Text fields, enter `dwfCost`.
3. Set **Watch** as the Trigger Type.

#### Configure the First Input Operator

The first [Input](/v1/docs/input-operator) operator retrieves data from the **monthlyCost** **T****ext Field** component.

1. Drag and drop an **I****nput** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Info |
| --- |
| Category | Input |
| Component | monthlyCost |
| Required | Yes |
| Source | Default |

#### Configure the Second Input Operator

The second Input operator retrieves your end-user's requested coverage length.

1. Drag and drop a second **I****nput** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Info |
| --- |
| Category | Input |
| Component | coverageLength |
| Required | Yes |
| Source | Default |

#### Configure the Formula Operator

The Formula operator multiples the monthly cost (`A`) by your end-user's coverage length, which serves as the formula's argument (`_arg`).

1. Drag and drop a **F****ormula** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Info |
| --- |
| Category | Formula Value |
| Label | Total Cost |
| Preserve Argument Type | Unchecked (no) |
| Formula/Expression | =A*_arg |
3. Connect the output port (right) of the **monthlyCost** **I****nput** operator to the input port (left) of the **Total Cost** **F****ormula** operator.
4. Connect the output port (right) of the **coverageLength** **I****nput** operator to the argument port (top) of the **Total Cost** **F****ormula** operator.

#### Configure the Output Operator

The [Output](/v1/docs/output-operator) operator sends the final cost to the **totalCost** **T****ext Field** component.

1. Drag and drop an **O****utput** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Info |
| --- |
| Category | Output |
| Component | totalCost |
| Action | value |
3. Connect the output port (right) of the **Total Cost** **F****ormula** operator to the input port (left) of the **totalCost** **O****utput** operator.
4. Click **Save Component**.
5. **Save** your module.

Here's how the completed Data Workflow looks:

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/formulaoperator_thumb_0_0.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

Here's how the completed example looks in the Module Builder:

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/Screenshot 2025-07-07 163521_thumb_0_0.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

**Preview** your module in Express View and make a selection from the drop-down menu. You'll see the calculated total cost in the **Total Cost** field. When you make a new selection, the total cost updates.

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/formulaoperatorfinal_thumb_0_0.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

## Overview

The **Formula operator** calculates data values using an expression. Let's say you're calculating the cost of an insurance plan over time and you know the value for one month. To find the value for a year, you use a Formula operator to multiply your original value by 12. Another common use for this operator is to calculate percentages.

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/Dwf_FormulaOperator_Info_thumb_0_0.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

You have two options when creating a formula:

- Creating a static formula using the Formula's Info window.
- Creating a formula with dynamic values using the operator's argument port.

You’ll find the Formula operator under the [Table](/v1/docs/tableoperators) group to the left of the [Data Workflow](/v1/docs/data-workflow-component) canvas.

## About the Info Window

And here's a breakdown of each setting in the Formula operator's Info window:

| Setting | Description |
| --- | --- |
| Category | Grayed out and non-adjustable setting indicating the operation type. |
| Label | The name applied to the operator. This label displays within the workflow. Labels should be user-friendly and well associated with the role of the operator. |
| Preserve Argument Type | When selected, this setting ensures the argument data type is respected when the operator executes. |
| Formula/Expression | The formula or expression you want to apply to your data. For example, use `A` to represent your original data. Your original data is anything you bring in through the operator's input port. Let's say you want to multiply your data by `12`. You'll enter `=A*12` in this field. If you want to use an argument instead of a set value in your formula, use `_arg`. The above formula as an argument is the following: `=A*arg`. In this example, `_arg` takes the place of `12`. Whatever value is set in the argument port goes in its place. |

## Adding and Configuring a Formula Operator

This example calculates the total insurance cost based on the number of months of coverage that is stored in the [Dropdown](/v1/docs/dropdown-component) component. Your end-user has the choice of how long they need coverage. From there, a [Data Workflow](/v1/docs/introduction-to-data-workflow) uses a Formula operator to calculate the cost of coverage.

### Configure the Text Field Components

Begin by configuring two [Text Field](/v1/docs/text-field-component) components that store the monthly cost of insurance and the total cost based on how many months of coverage the end-user decides on. As the values are always monetary, you'll set a dollar sign as the prefix. The end-users do not need to enter values in these Text Field components, so disable user input for both of them.

1. Drag and drop two **T****ext Field** components onto your canvas.
2. In the Property ID and Label Text fields, enter the following:

| Property ID | Label Text |
| --- | --- |
| monthlyCost | Monthly Cost |
| totalCost | Total Cost |
3. In the **Prefix** field, enter `$`.
4. Set the **Disable User Input** toggle to ![A toggle switch indicating an on/off state for a user interface element.](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/Group 1.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D) **(ON)**.
5. **Save & Close** each component as you add it.

### Configure the Initializer Component

Next, add an [Initializer](/v1/docs/initializer-component) component so that every time an end-user opens a new submission, the component places a value of 1000 in the first Text Field component. Doing so lets the Initializer component manage the monthly cost. If you want to set a new monthly cost, you can update the value in the Initializer component.

1. Drag and drop an **I****nitializer** component onto your canvas, placing it above your **monthlyCost** **T****ext Field** components.
2. In the Property ID and Canvas Label Text fields, enter `initSetCost`.
3. From the **Trigger Type** drop-down, select **New Submission**.
4. In the Outputs table, enter the following:

|  | Property ID | Type | Value |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | monthlyCost | value | 1000 |

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/Dwf_FormulaOperator_Init_thumb_0_0.png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)
5. Click **Save & Close**.

### Configure the Dropdown Component

Next, add a [Dropdown](/v1/docs/dropdown-component) component that lets your end-user select how many months they want coverage. This component serves as the argument for your Formula operator.

1. Drag and drop a **Dropdown** component onto the canvas, placing it between your **monthlyCost** **T****ext Field** component and **totalCost** **T****ext Field** components.
2. In the Property ID field, enter **coverageLength**.
3. In the Label Text field, enter `How many months of coverage do you need?`.
4. Set the **Option Label** and **Option Value** as follows:

| Option Label | Option Value |
| --- | --- |
| 6 | 6 |
| 12 | 12 |
| 18 | 18 |
| 24 | 24 |
5. Click **Save & Close**.

### Configure the Data Workflow Component

Lastly, add a [Data Workflow](/v1/docs/data-workflow-component) component that brings in the monthly cost and the end-user's selection from the Dropdown component. Then, a configure a Formula operator to calculate the total cost. The final value will output to your Text Field component.

1. Drag and drop a **D****ata Workflow** component onto your canvas, placing it below your other components.
2. In the **Canvas Label Text** and **Property Name** fields, enter `dwfCost`.
3. From the **Trigger Type** drop-down, select **Watch**.

#### Configure the First Input Operator

The first [Input](/v1/docs/input-operator) operator retrieves data from the **monthlyCost** **T****ext Field** component.

1. Drag and drop an **I****nput** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Setting | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Category | Input |
| Component | monthlyCost |
| Required | Yes |
| Source | Default |

#### Configure the Second Input Operator

The second Input operator retrieves your end-user's requested coverage length.

1. Drag and drop a second **I****nput** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Setting | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Category | Input |
| Component | coverageLength |
| Required | Yes |
| Source | Default |

#### Configure the Formula Operator

The Formula operator multiples the monthly cost (`A`) by your end-user's coverage length, which serves as the formula's argument (`_arg`).

1. Drag and drop a **F****ormula** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Setting | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Category | Formula Value |
| Label | Total Cost |
| Preserve Argument Type | Unchecked (no) |
| Formula/Expression | =A*_arg |
3. Connect the output port (right) of the **monthlyCost** **I****nput** operator to the input port (left) of the **Total Cost** **F****ormula** operator.
4. Connect the output port (right) of the **coverageLength** **I****nput** operator to the argument port (top) of the **Total Cost** **F****ormula** operator.

#### Configure the Output Operator

The [Output](/v1/docs/output-operator) operator sends the final cost to the **totalCost** **T****ext Field** component.

1. Drag and drop an **O****utput** operator onto your **D****ata Workflow** canvas.
2. Configure the **O****utput** operator's **Info** window as follows:

| Setting | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Category | Output |
| Component | totalCost |
| Action | value |
3. Connect the output port (right) of the **Total Cost****F****ormula** operator to the input port (left) of the **totalCost****O****utput** operator.
4. Click **Save**.
5. **Save** your module.

Here's how the completed Data Workflow looks:

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/Dwf_Formula_DWF_thumb_0_0.jpg?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

Here's how the completed example looks in the Module Builder:

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/Dwf_FormulaOperator_ModEdit_thumb_0_0(1).png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

**Preview** your module in Express View and make a selection from the drop-down menu. You'll see the calculated total cost in the **Total Cost** field. When you make a new selection, the total cost updates.

![](https://cdn.us.document360.io/15548f06-2fba-434c-b0c1-5df88317dbd7/Images/Documentation/formulaoperatorfinal_thumb_0_0(1).png?sv=2026-02-06&spr=https&st=2026-11-06T21%3A38%3A09Z&se=2026-11-06T22%3A38%3A09Z&sr=c&sp=r&sig=aaqEhkCemfhxAGzaIASi93XDAKtYdTkOdy0MIpRK4K4%3D)

## Resources

- [Text Field](/v1/docs/text-field-component) components
- [Initializer](/v1/docs/initializer-component) component
- [Dropdown](/v1/docs/dropdown-component) component
- [Introduction to Data Workflow](/v1/docs/introduction-to-data-workflow)
- [Introduction to Data Workflow Operators](/v1/docs/data-workflow-operators)
- [Data Workflow component](/v1/docs/data-workflow-component)

End-users, also known as Express Users, are the individuals accessing an application through Express View. In most cases, end-users are the customers using the product.

End-users, also known as Express Users, are the individuals accessing an application through Express View. In most cases, end-users are the customers using the product.

A Property ID is the unique field ID used by Unqork to track and link components in your module.

Label Text conveys what the input component is and what information it displays. Enter the purpose of the corresponding component or field.

Canvas Label Text indicates the purpose of the corresponding field or component. For non-input components, the Canvas Label Text isn't end-user facing, and only appears in the .

Enter outputs components and actions you want the component to perform.

Deteremines how the component triggers.

End-users, also known as Express Users, are the individuals accessing an application through Express View. In most cases, end-users are the customers using the product.

Express View is how your end-user views your application. Express View also lets you preview your applications to test your configuration and view the styling. This is also the view your end-users will see when interacting with your application. After configuring a module, click Preview in the Module Builder to interact with the module in Express View.

Enter outputs components and actions you want the component to perform.