# Display Expression

In maps and other views, Storyspace typically displays the note’s title (`$Name`) to identify the note.

Sometimes, you may want to display additional information: how much text the note contains, who is responsible for a project, or when a task is due.

The attribute `$DisplayExpression` lets you change the note’s label without changing the value of its `$Name`.

The `$DisplayExpression` attribute is simply an expression, just as used in rules, and actions. Whenever Storyspace needs to display the note, it evaluates the note’s `$DisplayExpression` and displays the result. If `$DisplayExpression` is empty, Storyspace displays the note’s `$Name`.

For example:

DisplayExpression | typical display
--- | ---
`$Name+" ("+$WordCount+" words)"` | Chapter 3 (7500 words)
`$Name+":"+format($DueDate,"l")` | Return books to library: 12/30/2008