Generate ID for an Element

Most elements in Paligo XML have an xml:id attribute, which Paligo uses it to identify each piece of content. The id is especially important for content reuse and cross-references, and is also essential for some other types of content such as checklists. For example, if you reuse a paragraph in two topics, that paragraph has the same xml:id in both topics.

Paligo generates xml:ids for some elements automatically. But in some circumstances, you may need to generate an xml:id manually, for example, if using a checklist or adding a cross-reference to an element that does not already have an xml:id.

To generate a unique xml:id for an element:

  1. Edit the topic that contains the element that needs an xml:id.

  2. Select the element in the content of the topic. For example, if you want to give a procedure an xml:id, select the procedure element in the content of your topic.

  3. In the element structure menu, select the element to display a menu for that element.

  4. Select Generate ID.

    Close up of element structure menu. The procedure element is selected, revealing a drop down menu. The Generate ID option is highlighted.

    Paligo generates an xml:id for the element. You can see it in the Element attributes panel.

    Element attributes section shows the procedure element is selected and it has an xml:id attribute with a value.

  5. Select Save.

Note

We recommend that you use the Generate ID option for xml:ids, as this means Paligo will create a unique ID for you. Creating your own custom ids is a bad idea, as this introduces the possibility of the same ids being used for different content. Paligo-generated ids are always unique.

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