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

# Projections and comparisons

> Change the population year and choose what the catchment is compared with.

Use the controls at the top of the analysis workspace to change the time period and reference shown alongside your catchment.

On a smaller screen, open **Analysis settings** to find the same controls.

## Change the projection year

1. Select the year shown in the workspace header.
2. Use the minus and plus buttons, or drag the **Projection year** slider.
3. Check the updated figures and charts.

<img className="docs-screenshot" src="https://mintcdn.com/picsy-1565b83e/wn3gRhXc98WJcD62/images/guides/projection-year-annotated.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=wn3gRhXc98WJcD62&q=85&s=12fed7c89dc397b36df700c32c73308b" style={{ width: 495 }} alt="Year selector circled in red, with the Projection year slider and minus and plus buttons open below it." width="2175" height="723" data-path="images/guides/projection-year-annotated.png" />

The selected year applies to measures built from population projections. Measures tied to a fixed source year keep the date shown in their title.

## Compare with an area

1. Open **Comparison**.
2. Select **Area**.
3. Choose the area or catchment model you want to use.

<img className="docs-screenshot" src="https://mintcdn.com/picsy-1565b83e/wn3gRhXc98WJcD62/images/guides/comparison-area.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=wn3gRhXc98WJcD62&q=85&s=06ea0a792fdd01d4740078845ca62234" alt="Comparison controls with Area selected and the available reference areas listed." width="510" height="350" data-path="images/guides/comparison-area.png" />

The list only shows references available for the current site. Depending on its location, this can include catchment models, its local authority, county, region or a national baseline.

## Compare with another target

1. Open **Comparison** and select **Target**.
2. Search for a saved site, address, care home or planning application.
3. Select the right result.
4. Set the catchment type and range for the comparison target.

The target's catchment is independent of the current site's catchment. Changing it does not alter your main analysis boundary.

After selecting a target, use **Toggle comparison map** in the header to open or close its map. Select **Clear** in the comparison controls when you no longer need the target.

## Check the result

Figures and tables that support comparisons update to use your selection. The map also shows the comparison target where it is relevant.

Next, learn how to adjust [map settings](/analysis/map-settings).
