Although you can add Variables to the FastDraft Dictionary "on-the-fly," you can save time by creating them first. Open to the FastDraft Dictionary in one window and open your original document in your word processor window. With both windows open, you can switch back and forth between them using the Windows 95/98/NT taskbar.
Work through your document stopping at each word or phrase that changes. Keep an eye out for places where you use one of several alternative phrasings or paragraphs. You can make them multiple choice variables or linked clauses, depending on how long they are. Switch to the Dictionary and enter a Variable for each such word or phrase. For example:
Variable Name Type Description
WebsiteTitle Text State the name of the Web site that will appear in the title bar
WebAddress Text Enter the Web site address in the form: www.yourwebsitename.com
OwnerCount Number Enter the number of people with full ownership rights
BusinessState Multiple choice Choose the state where the business offices are located
Other types of Variables include Gender Sensitive and Calculation. A Gender Sensitive Variable is usually a name. When a document containing a Gender Sensitive Variable is assembled, the user is prompted not only for the person's name but also for the person's gender so that FastDraft can fill in the correct pronouns -- she/he, his/her, him/her -- that appear elsewhere in the document. Calculation Variables use other numeric Variables to produce a calculated entry.