---
url: /technical/element-operators.md
description: >-
  MODLR supports the use of Element Operators within both Workviews and Cards to
  create temporary groupings and dynamic element selections without modifying
  the underlying hierarchy structure.
---

# Element Operators

MODLR supports the use of Element Operators within both Workviews and Cards to create temporary groupings and dynamic element selections without modifying the underlying hierarchy structure.

Element Operators can also be used within formulas. However, best practice recommends using valid element references wherever possible to improve auditability, maintainability, and model transparency.

These temporary groupings are useful for ad hoc reporting, analysis, and custom calculations.

The available Element Operators are:

| Operator | Creates a temporary parent from | |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| [`[+]`](/technical/addition-operator) | Everything under **either** of two elements | Union |
| [`[&]`](/technical/intersection-operator) | Only the elements **shared by both** parents | Intersection |
| [`[>]`](/technical/range-operator) | A **sequential range** of elements in a flat hierarchy | Range |