> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://captivatehelp.newbluelive.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://captivatehelp.newbluelive.com/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index.md).

# Play and update graphics step by step

Follow this six-step path to play your first graphic, change what it shows, prepare variations, and then connect live or custom data.

This is the recommended path for operators who are new to Captivate. Each step builds on the previous one. Steps 1–3 are taught in full here. Steps 4–6 introduce the workflow and link to the deeper chapters for Tables, Data Controllers, and custom integrations. Work through the steps in order the first time, then return to any step as needed.

## What’s in this chapter

* [1. Play a graphic](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index/1-play-a-graphic.md) — use this when you have never played a graphic in Captivate before.
* [2. Customize a graphic’s values](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index/2-customize-its-values.md) — use this when you need to change the text, scores, or names on a graphic by hand.
* [3. Prepare multiple variations](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index/3-prepare-variations.md) — use this when you need several versions of the same graphic ready to take.
* [4. Drive a graphic from a spreadsheet or file](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index/4-drive-from-spreadsheet.md) — use this when your content lives in CSV, Excel, Google Sheets, XML, or JSON.
* [5. Drive a graphic with a Data Controller](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index/5-drive-with-data-controller.md) — use this when a Data Controller in the catalog matches your source.
* [6. Write your own Data Controller](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index/6-write-your-own-controller.md) — use this when none of the built-in Data Controllers match your source and you need a custom integration.

## Related

* [Play and update graphics — section overview](/play-and-update-graphics/branch-index.md)
* [Tables](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index-1.md) — continue from step 4.
* [Data Controller catalog](/play-and-update-graphics/chapter-index-3.md) — continue from step 5.


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