How Do I Create Auto Complete Shorthand Codes?

Auto Complete allows you to record ‘longhand’ standard text and link it to a ‘shorthand’ code. Shorthand codes are abbreviations consisting of letters and numbers. When you enter a shorthand code in a memo field (for example, Project Journal, Sheet View, Expense Log, Messages, Email, etc.), it instantly inserts the longhand text, phrases, sentences, paragraphs or pages of text.

Shorthand codes are case sensitive. For example, ‘wu’ code for ‘write up services’ is not the same as ‘Wu’ or ‘WU’. In addition, shorthand codes cannot contain punctuation or spaces.

To create shorthand codes:

1. Open Auto Complete screen from the Settings screen.
2. Type the shorthand text in the Shortcut field and the longhand explanation in the Phrase field.
3. Check Shared option to make the shorthand codes available for all BillQuick Online users.
4. If desired, you can add a reminder in your longhand text by including [  ] (or other unique characters like ~, > or ^) as placeholder information, indicating a timekeeper, billing manager or project manager needs to insert information specific to the situation.
   
   If desired, you can add ‘placeholders’ in longhand text of shorthand codes. Utilizing curly {} or square [ ] brackets for easy identification,  placeholders prompt you to add or edit information for the situation – date, client name, contact name, issue and so on. If you neglect to replace placeholders, a reviewer or manager can see the omission and ask for correction. Standard text also makes it easier for managers to review memos because they follow a standard, consistent format. Thus, when memos carry to detailed invoices, they present a consistent, professional image.
   
5. When you have finished, click Save and then Close.