# Understand Shared Defaults, Variable Fields, and Locked Fields

[Card groups](https://www.digicard.pro/help/understand-card-groups/index.md) and [card templates](https://www.digicard.pro/help/understand-templates/index.md) use the same rules for shared and card-specific details.

## Shared default

A filled, unlocked field is a shared default. A card uses that value unless it has its own value. You can change the value on an individual card.

Example: The company address is provided by default. An individual card can use a different address when needed.

## Variable field

An empty, unlocked field remains variable. You can fill it separately for each card.

Example: Leave the name and phone number empty so each person can have their own details.

## Locked field

For a filled field, turn on **Lock field** when the value must not be changed on an individual card. The field isn't shown in the card form.

Example: A locked logo applies to every affected card.

## Disabled field

When a field is empty, the same setting is labeled **Disable**. The field isn't shown in the card form and can't be completed there.

Example: A disabled Instagram field stays empty on the affected cards.

## Priority for linked cards

For a linked card, values apply in this order:

1. A locked group value takes priority.
2. The card's own value comes next.
3. If the card has no value of its own, it uses the unlocked group default.

In a card group, the field rules continue to apply while an Editable Card remains linked. In a template, they apply while you create the new independent card.