> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.b2ihealthcare.com/snow-owl-authoring-platform/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.b2ihealthcare.com/snow-owl-authoring-platform/browsing-and-searching/snomed-ct-view/authoring-mode.md).

# Authoring Mode

Snow Owl can be set to operate in authoring and browsing modes. The lock icon in the main toolbar enables the switching between authoring (*stated*) and browsing (*inferred*) views. The selected view is applicable universally throughout the application.

![Browsing mode: Aithoring is not permitted when the lock is locked](/files/QH3HBvao6Axvemh8deu1)

![Auhtoring mode: Authoring is permitted when the lock is unlocked](/files/E4XW6fu6w91PIULiLm0Q)

#### Viewing the stated and inferred form of the ontology

In the SNOMED CT Navigator, the stated view displays the tree based on the manually authored stated relationships. The inferred view displays all hierarchical relationships that were calculated by the classifier, meaning that concepts may appear under more specific parents in the hierarchy. By switching between the two modes, users can review the outcome of the classification process and its impact on the parent-child relationships.


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