---
title: "Modeling and Formulas"
slug: "models-formulas"
description: "Learn the core concepts needed to build effective Pigment applications, including Metrics, Dimension Lists, Scenarios, and Versions. This section covers Pigment syntax, iterative calculations, dependent dropdowns, and performance optimization, giving modelers the foundations to structure data, run simulations, and create scalable, high-performance planning models."
updated: 2026-01-22T13:18:22Z
published: 2026-01-22T13:18:22Z
canonical: "kb.pigment.com/models-formulas"
---

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

# Modeling and Formulas

This section introduces modelers to essential concepts for building Pigment Applications, including:

- **Metrics.** A critical Block type used in Pigment for inputs, calculations, and outputs or reporting. Metrics are structured by Dimension Lists and can be set to different data types to handle multiple different uses.
- **Dimension Lists.** Groups of related Items, such as people in a department, products, or the regions comprising a geographic area. They are fundamental to Pigment as they define the structure and content of a model.
- **Scenarios.** Allow for rapid “on-the-fly” simulations.
- **Versions.** Essential for repeatable, auditable planning that is deeply integrated into your model.
- **Pigment syntax****.** Including aggregators and modifiers such as BY, allows you to transform data within Blocks.
- **Iterative calculations.** Key tools for building models that recur over time and other purposes.
- **Dependent dropdowns****.** Filter the Items suggested in one dropdown depending on what is selected in another dropdown, simplifying choices.
- **Performance optimization****.** Pigment’s native features for identifying slow calculations.