> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.whalesync.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.whalesync.com/features/additional-features/selective-sync.md).

# Selective row-level sync

## Overview

Selective row-level sync lets you pause syncing for individual records without turning off your whole sync. Add a checkbox field (e.g., "Sync Enabled") in the source app you want to control from. When the box is unchecked, Whalesync will not sync that record. Re-check it and Whalesync will resume syncing the record.

## How to enable selective row-level sync

![Selective Sync Interface](/files/JXfLPTKfHsWq6ZCRjNPv)

1. Edit your Whalesync base
2. Select the desired table
3. Open the **Advanced settings** tab
4. Enable the "Selective row-level sync" toggle for the app you want to control from
5. Choose the field that you want to use to control syncing. Only [compatible fields](#compatible_columns) will be available.
6. Save changes

### How it works

* When the control field is checked, the record syncs normally.
* When the control field is unchecked, syncing is paused for that record.
* While paused, changes from either app are ignored for that record.
* When re-enabled, Whalesync resumes syncing the record.

{% hint style="info" %}
The control field should not be a mapped column.
{% endhint %}

### Compatible fields <a href="#compatible_columns" id="compatible_columns"></a>

Only checkbox or boolean fields are eligible to use to control row-level syncing.

Examples by app:

* Airtable: Checkbox
* Notion: Checkbox
* Webflow: Switch
* Postgres & Supabase: boolean
* Google Sheets: boolean

## Behavior details

* Paused means Whalesync detects the change but purposefully ignores it for that record.
* The pause applies bi-directionally: edits in either connected app will not sync while paused.
* Re-enabling resumes normal behavior. If both sides changed while paused, the most recent changes win (per Whalesync's versioning).
* The sync overview can display how many records are currently paused in a table.

## FAQs

### Do I need to map the control field to the other app?

No. The control field should only exist on the side you want to control from and should not be mapped.

### What happens if I edit a paused record on the other app?

Changes are ignored while paused. When you re-enable syncing, edits made in either app will sync. If the same field was edited in both apps, the most recent change wins.

### Will the records still count toward my record limit if they are paused?

Yes. Selective row-level sync pauses an individual record, not the whole sync — the sync is still active, so the record still counts toward your record limit. (Pausing or deleting an *entire* sync is what changes your count — see [How record limits work](/resources/support/how-record-limits-work.md).)

### Can I use filters with selective row-level sync?

Yes. Table filters and selective row-level sync are additive. If a record is filtered out, it will not sync regardless of the control field.

### Does this replace using a "Draft" status in my CMS?

No. Draft status may hide content on your site. Selective row-level sync simply pauses syncing, so your live content can remain published while you edit.