> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.cfo.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Explore calculations without saving

Ari can evaluate temporary formulas when you need an answer without adding anything to the model.

## Use temporary evaluation for analysis

Examples:

> Calculate contribution margin by Department without saving anything.

> Compare Revenue growth by Region for the last six months. Do not create a property.

> Test Revenue divided by Headcount in the Base and Plan scenarios.

> Check whether Gross Margin behaves correctly when we drill into Product.

Ari runs these formulas through CFO.ai's calculation engine. The calculation follows the requested Date range, segmentation, and scenario, but no property, saved formula, or table is created.

## Temporary formulas can work together

Ari can define several temporary calculations and use one in another. This is useful for:

* Ratios and margins
* Variances and deltas
* Baseline comparisons
* Driver checks
* Per-segment analysis
* Scenario comparisons

## Be clear about the output

Specify the shape you want:

> Show monthly Gross Margin by Department from January through June.

> Return one total for each Region.

> Compare the same ratio between Base and Plan.

## Save the result only when you want to

If the analysis produces a calculation you want in the model, ask Ari to create or update a property formula in a separate step. Confirm the target property, scope, Formula period, and scenario before saving.