Add topic references to a map

You can use a DITA map to organize a set of topics into a hierarchy. Your map can contain references to topics or other maps, and a variety of content types and metadata. These steps explain how to reference another topic. If you want to add a different kind of reference or element to a map, read Add elements to a map.

Tips and tricks

You don't have to create all your topics first.

  • New — use this option when the topic hasn't been created yet. You'll have to select a template for the type, add a file name, and choose the language. After you save the new topic, you can go back later and add content
  • Existing — use this option to browse components and find the one you want to add to the map. If you update the component file name, it's automatically updated in the map. You can't delete a component that's referenced in a map. If you want to delete the component, first you have to remove it from the map.
  • Empty — use this option to add a placeholder for a topic you haven't created yet and you don't want to create now. To form a map that's valid you either need to go back and specify a topic or delete the empty reference.

Append vs. Insert

When you're adding a topic reference, the first choice you have to make is whether to insert a topic or append it.
  • Use insert to add a topic at the same level as the one you are currently on (a sibling). The topic reference is always added after the one you are currently on.
  • Use append to add a topic underneath the one you are currently on, and indented to the right (a child). This option groups these topics together in a parent/child relationship.

Use undo and redo if you make a mistake

You can undo and redo changes in the map editor and repeat them as many times as you want.
  • To undo an action, click xeditor4_undo or use the Ctrl+z keyboard shortcut.
  • To redo an action, click xeditor4_redoor use the Ctrl+y keyboard shortcut.

Options for moving map entries

If you add a reference in the wrong place or decide to move it, you have three ways to move it:
  • Cut, copy, and paste - use these options to move a map element anywhere in the hierarchy. To access these options, in the Map pane, select the map element, and then click Action_Menu the Options menu.
  • Move upmove_up and Move downmove_down - use these options to move a map element between it's siblings. If you want to move an element under a new parent node, use the Indent and Outdent buttons. To access these options, go to the Map pane and find them in the toolbar.
  • Indentindent and Outdentoutdent - use these options to move a map element under a new parent node. If you want to move a map element between it's siblings, use the Move up and Move down buttons. To access these options, go to the Map pane and find them in the toolbar.