# reference list — Learning Path _Learning Paths › reference list_ This learning path is for users who need to maintain and consult reference lists in the Reference List app. You’ll learn how to access the list workspace, create reference-list entries through the available new-entry screen, and perform routine review activities using the reference list. ## Learning objectives - By the end of this path you can access the reference list workspace and orient yourself to its purpose. - By the end of this path you can use the new-entry screen to begin adding a reference-list entry. - By the end of this path you can review reference-list information from the list screen. - By the end of this path you can follow a repeatable workflow for creating and checking reference-list entries. - By the end of this path you can use the available screens to support periodic reference-list maintenance. ## Prerequisites - Access to the Reference List app. - Permission to open the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) screen and the [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) screen. - Familiarity with the reference data or list values your organization needs to maintain. No specific role or prior system knowledge is shown in the available screens. ## Module 1: Understand the reference-list workspace Goal: Learn where to view reference-list information and where new entries are initiated. ### Lesson 1.1: Start from the reference list When you need to understand the current reference-list content before making changes, begin with the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list). Use this screen as your primary workspace for reviewing the reference-list information currently available to you. Before proceeding to create an entry, confirm that you are working in the correct list context. **Practice task:** Open the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) screen and identify the information you would review before adding a new entry. ### Lesson 1.2: Recognize the new-entry workflow When a needed reference-list item is not already represented in the list workspace, move to [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) to begin the new-entry workflow. Use the controls and information presented on this screen to prepare the entry according to your organization’s reference-data standards. **Practice task:** Open [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) and review the information available for beginning a new reference-list entry. ## Module 2: Perform daily reference-list work Goal: Use a consistent review-then-create workflow for routine reference-list requests. ### Lesson 2.1: Check the list before creating an entry When someone requests a reference-list addition, first review the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list). This prevents you from starting a new entry without first checking the existing list information. Use the list screen to establish whether the requested reference information should be handled as an existing item or needs a new-entry workflow. **Practice task:** For a sample request, open the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) and decide whether you need to continue to the new-entry screen. ### Lesson 2.2: Begin a new reference-list entry When your review indicates that a new item is needed, open [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list). Work through the entry screen using the information supplied in the request and the available screen controls. Keep the source request available so you can accurately represent the intended reference-list item. **Practice task:** Use [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) to start a practice entry based on a reference-data request provided by your instructor or team. ## Module 3: Maintain reliable reference-list information Goal: Apply a repeatable quality-check process during ongoing reference-list maintenance. ### Lesson 3.1: Validate an entry in its list context After working with a new reference-list entry, return to the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) to review the list context again. This review helps you assess whether the reference-list information is represented consistently with the rest of the available list content and whether follow-up is needed. **Practice task:** After completing a practice new-entry workflow, return to the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) and perform a visual consistency check. ### Lesson 3.2: Run a periodic reference-list review When your team performs a scheduled reference-data check, use the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) as the review point and [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) when the review identifies a legitimate need for a new item. Keep the workflow ordered: review the current list first, then initiate a new entry only when appropriate. **Practice task:** Simulate a periodic review by opening the [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list), identifying one potential follow-up item, and opening [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) only if a new entry is warranted. ## Final assessment 1. A colleague asks you to add a reference item immediately. What should you do first, and which screen should you use? 2. You have reviewed the current list and determined that the requested reference information is not represented. Which screen should you open next? 3. After beginning work on a new entry, you want to check it against the wider set of reference-list information. Which screen supports that review? 4. During a monthly maintenance activity, what workflow should you follow to avoid creating unnecessary new reference-list entries? 5. A request contains incomplete or unclear reference information. How should you use the available screens while you clarify the request? ### Answers 1. **Review the existing information on [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) first.** This establishes whether the requested item may already be represented. 2. **Open [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list).** This is the available screen for beginning a new reference-list entry. 3. **Use [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list).** It provides the list context needed for a review. 4. **Review [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) first, then use [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) only when a new item is needed.** The sequence supports controlled, non-duplicative maintenance. 5. **Review the request against [reference list](doc:reference-list-reference-list) and wait to proceed with [reference-list-new](doc:reference-list-reference-list) until the information is clear.** This helps ensure the new-entry workflow is based on reliable source information.