Modifying this control will update this page automatically
![](https://help.apple.com/assets/61E87B255FBFB2628709732E/61E87B275FBFB26287097336/en_GB/6cf1a0082e31a3588783d2fb062dccdc.png)
Add variables to an action in Automator on Mac
You can add a variable to a compatible field or pop-up menu of an action. The value of the variable is evaluated and used by the action when the workflow runs.
Click Variables in the top-left corner of the Automator window, then select a category from the Library.
The variables related to that category are displayed.
Drag the variable you want to use onto the field or pop-up menu of an action.
A green plus sign
appears if the variable is compatible.
When you use a variable in a text field, the variable may be used in-line with other text. When the workflow runs, the variable is evaluated and the value of the variable appears as a part of the text in the field.