Creating Tables in I.Q.

 

Introduction

Inspired Query (IQ) in AECInspire allows users to extract structured data efficiently. One of its most powerful features is the ability to format extracted information into tables, which can then be copied into spreadsheets like Excel for further use. This guide walks through the steps to generate, refine, and customize tables using IQ.


Generating Tables in IQ

Step 1: Asking for a Table

  1. Open IQ in AECInspire while inside your project.

  2. Use a clear prompt to request data in table format.

    • Example: "As an electrical contractor, list all lighting fixtures along with their manufacturer, model number, and specifications in a table format."

  3. IQ will process the request and generate a table.

Step 2: Copying the Table

  1. Click and drag to highlight the generated table.

  2. Copy the table by using Ctrl + C (Windows) or Cmd + C (Mac).

  3. Paste it directly into Excel or another spreadsheet application (Ctrl + V or Cmd + V).


Refining and Customizing Tables

Step 3: Adjusting Table Columns

  1. If you need a different column arrangement, instruct IQ accordingly.

    • Example: "Switch the order of the Manufacturer and Model columns."

  2. IQ will regenerate the table with the revised column structure.

Step 4: Adding or Removing Columns

  1. If you need additional details, ask IQ to add columns.

    • Example: "Include installation requirements in the table."

  2. To remove unnecessary columns, specify which ones to exclude.

    • Example: "Remove the Model Series column from the table."


Advanced Table Formatting

Step 5: Exporting Data for Further Use

  1. After copying the table into Excel, use formatting tools to adjust:

    • Column width and alignment

    • Conditional formatting for highlighting key information

    • Data sorting and filtering

  2. If necessary, reformat IQ’s output using Excel’s table tools to improve readability.


Best Practices for Table Usage

  • Use Clear and Specific Prompts – Define exactly what information should be included in the table.

  • Refine Tables Iteratively – Adjust structure, content, and format with follow-up prompts.

  • Copy Data to Spreadsheets for Further Analysis – IQ’s tables are best used as a starting point for Excel-based calculations and reporting.


Next Steps

  • Experiment with different table structures using IQ.

  • Integrate tables into reports and project documentation.

  • Check out AECInspire’s Knowledge Hub for more tips on effective querying.

Using tables in IQ enhances the usability of extracted data, making it easier to analyze, share, and act upon.