# Comparison controller

The comparison controller is a tool that allows you to conduct period-over-period analysis within the data tables. It facilitates the addition of adjacent time periods for direct comparison, providing insights into trends and changes over time.

### Features and functionality

{% hint style="info" %}
Comparison controllers are only available for [metrics](/managing-advertising-accounts/modules/cross-module-components/data-tables/data.md#metrics).
{% endhint %}

By [initiating a comparison](#using-the-controller), you can add immediately adjacent time periods for comparison.

#### Additional controls

Upon [adding periods](#adding-more-periods), more control options appear, including '-' and 'x'. The ['-' controller](#removing-the-last-period) is used to remove the last added period, while the ['x' controller](#close-comparisons) closes the comparison entirely.

#### Visualization options

You have the option to [include a comparison percentage](#toggling-comparison-percentages) with the immediately adjacent period, enhancing the visualization and understanding of data trends. This option is enabled by default.

#### Period limitations

There is no limit to the number of periods a user can compare, as long as data for those periods is available. This allows for extensive historical analysis.

***

### Using the controller

To initiate a comparison click the '+' button located in the [controllers bar](/managing-advertising-accounts/modules/cross-module-components/data-tables/controllers-bar.md). This adds an immediately adjacent period for comparison.

#### **Adding more periods**

Continue clicking the '+' button to add additional periods as required, as long as data is available for those periods.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/SAN8JM3CLfnuiMilqkor" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

#### **Removing the last period**

To remove the last added comparison period, click the '-' button.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/gGN9XG2fKPvzva6Aaca0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

#### **Closing comparisons**

If you wish to end the period comparison, click the 'x' button.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/OeTd8jYaqko8y9ubJ21C" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

#### **Toggling comparison percentages**

To view or hide comparison percentages with the immediately adjacent period, use the "show comparison percentages" toggle in the [actions bar](/managing-advertising-accounts/modules/cross-module-components/data-tables/actions-bar.md).

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/7jEPHqxuSvekAyw1jYju" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>


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