# Using Datasets

Datasets can be used in a form or in a workflow task. 

When used in a form a dataset is referenced so that a read operation can be performed on that dataset. When used in a workflow task, a dataset is referenced so that an update operation can be performed on that dataset.

For both scenarios, this reference to the dataset is done via Dataset connections.

## Dataset Connection

A dataset connection is simply a reference to a dataset for purposes of a read or update operation.

### Read Dataset Connection

A read dataset connection can be done from the form either on the [configuration of a drop down field](/managing-services/managing-forms/using-the-form-builder/form-field-types.md#settings-4) or [configuration of a field validator](/managing-services/managing-forms/using-the-form-builder/field-validators.md).

To create a read dataset connection:

* Click on the add icon or edit icon next to the data connection field.

<figure><img src="/files/Go9zjx1q5l1ONVEFPYC5" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* The dataset connection form appears

<figure><img src="/files/Hslsq1hpqGSqJP1GmSb6" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Choose reference type as 'Local' to connect to a dataset that is available on your organization's account.
* Choose the dataset you want to connect to.
* Provide a connection name.
* Click on the save button
* You can now use this connection for all other assets in your organization's account.

### Update Dataset Connection

An update dataset connection can be done from a workflow service task that is intended to [update a dataset](/managing-services/building-the-workflow/service-task-types.md#update-dataset).

To create an update dataset connection:

* Click on the add icon or edit icon next to the data connection field.

<figure><img src="/files/nSvn4tHslWvjIyGI0MRD" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* The update dataset connection form appears

<figure><img src="/files/ZRdzLczof4JF5HZ0cL0w" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* Choose a dataset that you want to connect to
* Provide or edit the connection name
* Choose the form that will contain the source data for updating the dataset.
* Add mappings for the update. For each mapping added:

  * Choose the target field to be updated on the dataset
  * Choose the source field from the selected form that will update the corresponding target field on the dataset       &#x20;
  * Note: For source fields that are of the type "dynamic matrix field", the rows in the data for the field will each be saved as a separate dataset record and you must add a mapping for each column in your dynamic matrix field.&#x20;

  <figure><img src="/files/DwyfZ7If8xYqKbFlmih1" alt=""><figcaption><p>Update Settings for a connection that writes a single record to a dataset</p></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/8oSDHQGfXgl93Zp1whst" alt=""><figcaption><p>Update Settings for a connection that writes multiple records to a dataset from a dynamic matrix field</p></figcaption></figure>

* Click on the save button


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