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

# Default Value

> Learn how to use the default value helper function to handle empty values in shortcodes

The `default` helper function allows you to specify a fallback value when a shortcode field is empty. This ensures your emails always display something meaningful, even when data is missing.

## Syntax

The syntax for this helper function is:

```
{{default shortcode_value fallback_default_value}}
```

Where:

* `default` is the function name
* `shortcode_value` is the primary value you want to display
* `fallback_default_value` is what will be displayed if the `shortcode_value` is empty

## Examples

### Using a String Fallback

```
Hey {{default lead.full_name 'there'}}!
```

If `lead.full_name` exists:

```
Hey John Doe!
```

If `lead.full_name` is empty:

```
Hey there!
```

### Using Another Shortcode as Fallback

```
Contact us at {{default company.contact_phone company.contact_email}}
```

If `company.contact_phone` exists:

```
Contact us at +1 234-567-890
```

If `company.contact_phone` is empty:

```
Contact us at contact@acmeinc.com
```

## Best Practices

* Always use default values for critical personalization fields
* Keep default values generic but professional
* Test your templates with both filled and empty fields
* Consider using other shortcodes as fallbacks when appropriate
* Preview your templates to ensure the fallbacks work as expected