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Writer's pictureDave Parrish

"Copy/Move" Problems in Knack Apps (and how to fix)

Updated: Jul 14



Troubleshooting Copy and Move Functions in Knack

Hey there! Today, I want to share some insights about a common frustration many builders face when using Knack: the unpredictability of the copy and move functions. If you've ever found yourself staring at a list of options only to discover that the one you need isn't there, you’re not alone.


Understanding the Basics

In Knack, copying page elements can save a ton of time. Whether you’re replicating user roles or transferring content, this function should be seamless. However, I've noticed that sometimes, despite having the right structure, the desired destination for your copied elements simply isn't available.


The Mystery of Missing Options

It can be maddening! You’ve set everything up correctly, but when you try to copy or move an item, the list of available destinations is either confusing or incomplete. I often find myself wondering if there’s a trick I’m missing.


One tip I've discovered is that a simple page refresh might sometimes resolve the issue. If you're facing a stubborn moment where options are unavailable, it’s worth trying to restart the app or refresh the page to see if that helps.


A Practical Workaround

When all else fails, I’ve found a workaround that can save you time and sanity. Here’s what I do:

  1. Create a Temporary Page: If I can't find a suitable destination, I’ll create a new public page that mirrors the structure of the page I’m working on.

  2. Set Up a Similar Structure: For example, if I'm working with an order detail, I'll create a new page called "Test" and set it up with similar columns and actions.

  3. Copy to the Temporary Page: Once that page is ready, I go back to the original order detail and attempt to copy the content there. More often than not, this trick makes the destination appear on the list, allowing me to complete the copy process.

  4. Delete the Temporary Page: Once I’ve successfully copied the content, I can delete this temporary page, as it served its purpose.


Final Thoughts

While I can’t guarantee this method will work every time, it has been a useful strategy for me in navigating Knack’s sometimes perplexing interface. If you find yourself grappling with the copy and move functions, I encourage you to give it a shot!


Have you encountered similar issues, or do you have tips of your own? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. Thanks for reading!



You can check out my Knack database services here:  https://www.knackbuilders.com/knack-database-consulting


Interested? Book an intro call: https://calendly.com/daveparrish/callwithdave

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