# Properties Window

Most elements that can be represented by nodes in the Projects, Files, or Navigator windows, or in the Visual Debugger or Swing Design editor for JavaFX and Java GUIs, have properties that can be viewed in a property sheet. The Properties window displays the names and values of the properties of the currently selected node or element.

Depending on the type of element selected, you might see additional nodes for distinct categories of properties. The properties for the selected element are generally grouped into one or more of the following categories.

Element | Description
--- | ---
Properties | Displays a list of the properties of the element. You can edit some of the properties by typing in the text field or selected an option from the dropdown list. Some properties are read-only.
Text | Displays the text encoding for a file. This field is read-only.
Element Attributes | Displays a list of the attributes of the element that you can edit by typing in the text field or selected an option from the dropdown list.
Sorting | Enables you to select how lists are ordered. Select a sort method from the dropdown list.
Classpaths | Displays the various classspaths for the selected element. This is read-only.

You can edit the values of most properties in the Properties window. To change a property value, click the property's value field. The appearance of the field changes depending on the type of value required:

- If a string value is required, the field becomes a text field. You can type the new value directly in this field and press Enter.
- If a specific list of values is allowed, a drop-down arrow appears. You can click this arrow and select the value from the combo box that appears. You can also double-click the property name to rotate through the available values.
- If a property editor is available for that property, an ellipsis (...) button appears. You can click the ellipsis button to open the property editor.

Related Topics

Developing Applications with NetBeans IDE,

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