> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.flatredball.com/gum/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.flatredball.com/gum/gum-tool/variables/hide-from-instances.md).

# Hide from Instances

## Introduction

Variables on a component can be hidden from instances using the **Hide from Instances** right-click option. When a variable is hidden, it no longer appears in the **Variables** tab when selecting an instance of that component. The variable remains fully functional on the component definition itself - it is only hidden from instances.

<figure><img src="/files/SZjBoYThkUBYSElk0ZBI" alt=""><figcaption><p>Rotation variable hidden from instances of the BlueComponent</p></figcaption></figure>

Hiding variables is useful for:

* Simplifying the **Variables** tab on instances by removing variables that are never changed per-instance
* Preventing accidental changes to variables that could break a component's layout or behavior, such as `Children Layout` on a container that relies on a specific stacking mode

{% hint style="info" %}
The **Hide from Instances** option is also available on screens. Since screens cannot be instanced in the tool, this only affects runtime code generation.
{% endhint %}

## Hiding a Variable

To hide a variable from instances:

1. Select the component definition (not an instance)
2. Right-click the variable in the **Variables** tab
3. Select **Hide from Instances**

The variable displays "Hidden from instances" text beneath it to indicate its status.

<figure><img src="/files/xrkimF3CNy4OwYvYoirn" alt=""><figcaption><p>Hidden from instances label under a hidden variable</p></figcaption></figure>

## Showing a Hidden Variable

To make a hidden variable visible on instances again:

1. Select the component or screen definition
2. Right-click the hidden variable
3. Select **Show on Instances**

## Inheritance

Hidden variable settings are inherited. If a base component hides a variable, all components that derive from it also hide that variable on their instances. A derived component does not need to re-hide variables that are already hidden by a base type.


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