---
title: "Displaying Custom Fields in Reader Dashboards (Merge Queries)"
slug: "displaying-custom-fields-in-reader-dashboards-merge-queries"
updated: 2026-03-03T14:36:34Z
published: 2026-03-03T14:36:34Z
canonical: "knowledge.technolutions.net/displaying-custom-fields-in-reader-dashboards-merge-queries"
---

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

# Displaying Custom Fields in Reader Dashboards (Merge Queries)

[Custom](/v1/docs/custom-fields) and [standard fields](/v1/docs/standard-fields) can be mapped in the PDF Editor and using merge fields. Any items not available in these areas can be added by creating a **merge query**.

## Creating the merge query

1. Go to **Queries / Reports**.
2. Select **New Query**.
3. Configure the following settings:
  - **Name:** Enter a name describing what the merge fields are for, like *Reader Dashboard*, or *Custom Application PDF*.
    - 📝 It is no longer necessary to name this query `Merge`.
  - **User:** Select a user. Defaults to the current user.
  - **Sharing:** Leave this unselected for now.
  - **Folder**: System
  - **Type:** Configurable Joins
  - **Category:** Records
  - **Base:** Application
  - **System Key**: Merge
4. Select **Save.**
5. Add **Exports** that contain the values that will be used as merge fields on the PDF.
6. Update the export names for the merge fields to be **unique** and **computer friendly:**
  - Merge fields must be unique among other merge field names on any other Merge or MergePublic query, or any custom or standard field names.
  - For example, *Application Entry Term* should be renamed `app_entry_term`
7. Select **Run Query**.
8. Confirm exports display the data as it should appear in the Reader.
9. Return to the query overview page.
10. Select **Edit**.
11. Select **Sharing.**

## Adding the merge query to the PDF Editor

1. Go to **Database → Files**.
2. Find your PDF and select **PDF Editor.**
3. Add the [Merge query fields in the PDF Editor](/v1/docs/custom-pdf). The merge fields created in this query can now be mapped in the PDF Editor.
4. In **Field Name,** copy and paste the name of the new merge field. For example, `app_entry_term`.