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

# Core concepts overview

> Review the foundational concepts you need before you build in Oculon.

Most work in Oculon comes down to a small set of concepts that build on each other. Once you understand how they connect, the rest of the product is much easier to navigate.

## Variables

Variables are the core lines in a model. They hold values, formulas, or both. A variable can represent a metric, a driver, an assumption, or a calculated result.

## Dimensi'ons.

Dimensions add structure to a variable. You use them to break the same metric into categories such as region, department, product, or customer segment.

## Time

Time gives the model a planning horizon. It defines the date range, granularity, and the point where actuals end and forecast values begin.

## Formulas

Formulas tell variables how to calculate. They can reference other variables, use helper logic, and respond to time and dimension context.

## Models, databases, scenarios, views, and boards

* `Models` hold the planning logic.
* `Databases` hold source records and imported data.
* `Scenarios` let you test changes safely.
* `Views` save filtered slices of model or database content.
* `Boards` present metrics visually and can embed saved views.

## A good mental model

Think of Oculon as one connected system:

* `Databases` provide data
* `Models` create logic
* `Scenarios` test change
* `Views` narrow the right model or database slice
* `Boards` communicate the result


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