> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dreetje-1.gitbook.io/inbox-ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dreetje-1.gitbook.io/inbox-ai/actions/action-variables.md).

# Action Variables

Action Variables are placeholders Inbox AI replaces with actual values before they are sent to the AI. See [Templating](/inbox-ai/templating.md) for more information about using them and the default variables available.

To create and edit variables, click the"'Edit variables" button (1) in the bottom right of most actions.

<div><figure><img src="/files/eAbaFcCcl8rU3tHeYYa8" alt=""><figcaption><p>(1) Click edit variables</p></figcaption></figure> <figure><img src="/files/T1ogSmLIBbEMIhAYnkNi" alt=""><figcaption><p>Fill in the variables</p></figcaption></figure></div>

The popup shows you a list of the variables available to the selected action. Each variable has:

* A name, which is used to refer to the variable using [Templating](/inbox-ai/templating.md) (i.e `{{ input }}`)
* A label for the AI or Human with a more readable format
* A description for the AI or Human with instructions how to use the variable
* A type:
  * String: A piece of text
  * Array: A list of strings
* Whether it is intended to be used for by a human or an AI

Human variables result in a configuration screen to show. This allows for easy configuration of actions, especially actions shared with others can benefit from this. A common example of these are API keys.

AI variables are used by Ask AI actions. The AI uses your label and descriprion to do its best filling them.

## Secret Variables

<figure><img src="/files/e5mRMDNljuWiKTtNuRz8" alt=""><figcaption><p>An example of a secret variable in a configuration screen</p></figcaption></figure>

Human variables that start with the word "secret" (i.e. `secretApiKey`) will automatically show in the configuration screen as passwords.