A formatter in ServiceNow is a UI element that is added to a form to display useful information that is not stored as a field in the database record.
It enhances the form UI by providing additional context or tools for users.
Formatters do not store data in the underlying database table.
They are drag-and-drop elements that can be added to forms using the Form Layout editor.
Activity Formatter – Displays the history of updates, comments, and work notes.
Process Flow Formatter – Shows a graphical representation of the record's workflow.
Parent Breadcrumb Formatter – Displays the hierarchy of parent-child relationships.
CI Relations Formatter – Shows Configuration Item (CI) relationships in CMDB.
User Approval Formatter – Displays approval status and history.
Key Characteristics of a Formatter:Common Examples of Formatters in ServiceNow:
Why is Option B Correct?✅ A formatter is a form element used to display information that is not a field in the record.
Why Are the Other Options Incorrect?❌ A. "A formatter allows you to configure applications on your instance."
Incorrect: Formatters do not configure applications; they only modify the form layout for better user experience.
Correct Alternative: Application configuration is done via System Applications or Application Navigator.
❌ C. "A formatter allows you to populate fields automatically."
Incorrect: Formatters do not fill or modify fields.
Correct Alternative: Business Rules, Client Scripts, and UI Policies handle field population.
❌ D. "A formatter is a set of conditions applied to a table to help find and work with data."
Incorrect: The correct term for this is a Filter or Condition Builder, not a Formatter.
Correct Alternative: Filters are used in List Views, Reports, and Business Rules.
Reference from Certified System Administrator (CSA) Documentation:???? ServiceNow Docs – Form Layout and Formatters???? ServiceNow Formatters Documentation
"A formatter is a form element that displays information that is not a field in the record but enhances the user experience."