How to Safely Delete a Table Column Without Breaking Formulas | Clay

How to Safely Delete a Table Column Without Breaking Formulas

I want to delete a column in a table as I don't think I need it. I have tons of formulas in other columns and there is a possibility that another table might be referencing it. Is there an easy way for me to check without manually reviewing every formula?

5 comments

Channeled
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Currently, we don't have a built-in feature to automatically check if a column is being referenced by formulas or other tables before deletion. However, you can take some precautions: 1. Hide the column instead of deleting it initially. This allows you to see if any formulas break without permanently removing the data. 2. If you decide to delete the column, use the "Delete" option from the column's dropdown menu. This will prompt a confirmation, giving you a chance to reconsider. Remember, deleted columns cannot be recovered, so it's important to be cautious. To better understand your needs, could you tell me more about why you think you might not need this column? This could help us explore alternative solutions or ways to safely manage your data.
Sources: Table columns | Documentation | Clay University Delete content within your workspace | Documentation | Clay University
Brian O.
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I am really hitting bumping up against the 70 column limit so I need to get rid of any unnecessary columns. Will hiding a column actually show if other formulas break? I don't think it does.
Channeled
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No, simply hiding a column won't show if formulas break. Here's what you can do to safely manage column deletion: 1. First, check for dependencies by reviewing any waterfall "parent" columns, as these often indicate relationships between columns. 2. You can temporarily hide the column using either: • The column header dropdown menu → Select "Hide" • The Columns button at the top of your table → Toggle the column off 3. If you decide to delete the column, you can do so by: • Clicking on the column • Selecting "Delete" from the dropdown menu • Confirming your changes Please note that deleted columns cannot be recovered, so it's important to be certain before deleting.
Sources: Table columns | Documentation | Clay University Customize your table view | Documentation | Clay University Delete content within your workspace | Documentation | Clay University
LuisArturo
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Hey there Brian thanks for reaching out, do you mind sending the link (url) to the table so we can take a look?
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One quick way to check to see if a column is being referenced by other inside of your table is by checking the "Graph View" for the table. This can be found by clicking on the table name in the table section of the table.
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Channeled
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