> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.carto.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.carto.com/carto-user-manual/maps/sql-parameters/text-parameter.md).
# Text parameter
Text parameters are replaced by an **array of strings** in your query. They are ideal for filtering data by category names or text-based identifiers—such as product types or admin regions.
## **Text Parameter Settings**
When creating a text parameter, you'll configure:
### **Values**
Define the list of selectable values shown in the control UI.
* **Add manually:** Enter values directly.
* **Add from Source:** Select a column from your data source to auto-populate the list with up to **1,000 distinct values**.
* You can sort the values by **frequency** or **alphabetically**, in ascending or descending order.
### **Naming**
* **Display name:** The name that will appear in the control UI.
* **SQL name:** The name that needs to be used in your SQL query. It always has to be enclosed between double curly brackets, like: `{{day_night}}`.
## **Using Text Parameters in your SQL Query**
Once the parameter is created, add the parameer to your SQL query using the SQL name:
```sql
SELECT * FROM `carto-demo-data`.demo_tables.fires_worldwide
WHERE daynight IN {{day_night}}
```
After adding the parameter, the control UI will appear in the **right-side panel**, allowing users to:
* Search values
* Enter custom text
* Select one or multiple categories
{% hint style="info" %}
Text parameters are replaced by an array of strings. Use SQL syntax that supports arrays—like `IN`—for proper evaluation.
{% endhint %}
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