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

# Scratchpad

> Draft SQL, dbt™ models, and Python in the Paradime Scratchpad: gitignored files with instant data previews, saved across sessions, perfect for experiments.

export const Arcade = ({src, title}) => <div style={{
  position: 'relative',
  paddingBottom: 'calc(56.2225% + 41px)',
  height: 0,
  width: '100%'
}}>
    <iframe src={src} title={title} frameBorder="0" loading="lazy" allow="clipboard-write" allowFullScreen style={{
  position: 'absolute',
  top: 0,
  left: 0,
  width: '100%',
  height: '100%',
  colorScheme: 'light'
}} />
  </div>;

Paradime's Scratchpad in the Code IDE allows for quick, temporary experiments in standard SQL and/or dbt™ (using ref, macros, etc). It provides instant data previews and organizes files in a dedicated folder.&#x20;

These files are gitignored to keep your repository clean and remain available across sessions, so you can continue your work seamlessly after logging out and back in.

## Tutorial

<Arcade src="https://demo.arcade.software/xz2wWYlwZ9Wm7UazSKRh?embed&embed_mobile=tab&embed_desktop=inline&show_copy_link=true" title="Scratchpad" />

When you create a new scratchpad file, it automatically generates a new folder named "paradime\_scratch," with individual gitignored files like “scratch-1”, “scratch-2” and so on, ensuring each scratchpad file is neatly organized. You can rename the files as needed.

## Use Cases

* **Draft code snippets** that can be refined later, supporting various languages like SQL and dbt™
* **Perform quick tests or experiments** without affecting the main codebase.
* **Quickly jot down notes** or intermediary steps during development.
* **Instantly preview SQL query results** to validate and debug code.

### Instant Data Explorer

Leverage the [Data Explorer](/products/code-ide/run-and-preview/data-explorer) to preview your compiled SQL and results without having to first compile your dbt™ resources.


## Related topics

- [Data Exploration in the Code IDE](/guides/paradime-101/getting-started-with-the-paradime-ide/data-exploration-in-the-code-ide.md)
- [Data Explorer](/products/code-ide/run-and-preview/data-explorer.md)
- [Run & Preview](/products/code-ide/run-and-preview/index.md)
- [Code IDE](/products/code-ide/index.md)
- [Translating Key Terms](/guides/migrations/dbt-cloud-tm-importer/translation-of-key-terms.md)