> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://alix-lahuec.gitbook.io/zotero-roam/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://alix-lahuec.gitbook.io/zotero-roam/customization/formatting.md).

# Formatting metadata

The extension's default formatters are not meant to be used permanently : their goal is to provide a starting point, from which you can build your own templates.

When importing items' metadata, there are two ways to customize formatting:

* with a SmartBlock, if you use [David Vargas' plugin](https://roamjs.com/extensions/smartblocks)
* with a JavaScript function, if you don't use SmartBlocks or are looking for more granular control over your template

In both cases, the extension provides built-in helpers for retrieving and/or formatting metadata. Refer to each method's page for more details:

{% content-ref url="/pages/nkxY8LwgAibfeGikjaPW" %}
[SmartBlock templates](/zotero-roam/customization/formatting/smartblock-templates.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/CsEKsqmTZ6icObx2vWBt" %}
[JavaScript templates](/zotero-roam/customization/formatting/javascript-templates.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}


---

# Agent Instructions
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## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:

```
GET https://alix-lahuec.gitbook.io/zotero-roam/customization/formatting.md?ask=<question>&goal=<endgoal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
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Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.