Complex attribute definitions

Several DITA attributes require more explanation than can fit in a single table cell. Those attributes are collected here.

1. The conref attribute This attribute is used to reference an ID on content that can be reused. It allows reuse of DITA components from phrases to topics, as well as maps and pieces of maps.
2. The type attribute The type attribute is most often used on linking elements to describe the target of a cross-reference. It is also used on the note element to describe the type of the current note, and on several other elements for varying purposes.
3. The format attribute The format attribute identifies the format of the resource being cross referenced. The processing default for format is dita. If no value is specified, but the attribute is specified on an ancestor within a map or within the related-links section, the value will inherit from the closest ancestor.
4. The role attribute The role attribute defines the role the target topic plays in relationship with the current topic. For example, in a parent/child relationship, the role would be "parent" when the target is the parent of the current topic, and "child" when the target is the child of the current topic. This structure could be used to sort and classify links at display time.

TOC: Language Specification 1.1
Parent topic: Commonly referenced attributes
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