In Beyond Compare, file formats describe the syntax of specific kinds of files by defining elements. File formats are typically picked automatically, based on the filename extension.
A Text Compare session defines which elements are important to the comparison. Notice that the session settings deal with elements in a more abstract manner while the various file formats handle the syntax details.

To change the default importance of an element type
1. | In the Home view's Sessions tree, under the New branch, right-click on Text Compare and pick Edit. |
2. | Switch to the Importance tab. |
3. | Mark or unmark the appropriate checkboxes. |
To override importance only in the current Text Compare view
1. | Open Sessions > Session Settings and switch to the Importance tab. |
2. | Mark or unmark the appropriate checkboxes. |
3. | At the bottom of the dialog, pick Use for this view only from the dropdown list. |
To override importance in a Folder Compare session
1. | From the Folder Compare session, open a child Text Compare session. |
2. | Open Sessions > Session Settings and switch to the Importance tab. |
3. | Mark or unmark the appropriate checkboxes. |
4. | At the bottom of the dialog, pick Use for all files within parent session from the dropdown list. |
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