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What is a placeholder file?

A placeholder file is a small, usually empty file used to preserve a folder structure or indicate where future files will be added. It helps the platform, developers, and other users recognize expected directories or content even when no real data is uploaded yet. Placeholder files are also useful when users want to explore or test the platform before uploading sensitive or complete datasets. This allows them to experience the platform’s features, such as metadata management, analytics, and sharing without exposing real data.

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To add a placeholder file manually

  1. Navigate to the Data Project section of your project. Create a new project using Bulk File Upload or Multiple File Bulk Upload.
  2. Click the Add Placeholder File button.
add placeholder
  1. Complete the required fields:
    • Name: Enter a clear, descriptive name for your placeholder file. This helps others understand its purpose or what content is expected later.
    • Size: Placeholder files usually have no content, so the size will appear as zero. Use this field to confirm that the file record has been created successfully.
    • Extension: Confirm the file type for your placeholder (for example, .csv, .xlsx, or .zip) to indicate what kind of file will replace it later.
add placeholder
  1. Click Add to save your placeholder file.
Once added, the placeholder will appear in your file list and can be replaced with the actual file at any time. This helps maintain project structure and workflow consistency during setup or testing phases.