Panel Mode Derivation (Advanced)
This page explains how panel modes are determined at a system level.
Mode derivation
Panel modes are not set manually. They are computed from system state.
The derivation follows a priority chain:
- Ownership — does this tab hold the editing lease?
- Same-document constraint — is the same document open in both panels?
- Preview or historical state — is the user viewing a past version?
- User actions — is the user following updates or in focus mode?
The highest-priority condition determines the mode.
Authority states
Each panel has an authority state:
- Live — connected to the latest version, editing allowed
- Historical — viewing a past version, read-only
- Fork — editing based on a past version, creating a new path
Visual indicator mapping
Each mode maps to visual feedback:
- Editing → normal appearance, active cursor
- Read-only → dimmed appearance, lock icon
- Preview → preview label, distinct styling
- Following → auto-updating indicator
Why this model works
- Modes are always consistent with system state
- Users never end up in an invalid mode
- Changes propagate instantly when conditions change
Back to: Panel Modes
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