Ability enables you to format fields in a Report without affecting the formats set for the underlying Table. This is useful in that your format requirements for the printed report may be different from those in the table. Moreover, you may want to print several reports, each using different formatting, without touching your basic table grid formats.
The report formats are set when the report is in design mode. For instance, if you would like to precede a numeric field with a currency sign, give the field commas with thousands, and display two decimal places, you can set all these as follows:
Open up the report (it will open in design mode).
Select the field you would like to format.
Select the Data Format option from the Format menu.
Select Format in the tree at the left of the Format Object Style box (the Format option will display the number format options).
Select 2 in the Decimal Places box, Thousands with Commas, and a currency sign (use the Trail/Lead String box with Leading selected to display a variety of signs, including currencies).
Check the Preview in the dialog box to make sure your formats are correct.
Click on OK to close the box and apply the formats.
Click on the Print Preview button to see how your report will appear with the new formats applied.
The underlying Table Grid remains unaffected, retaining its original formats.
Note that you can apply a range of formats, for example, Color or Font, depending on the Data Type you previously set for the field.