---
url: https://chartbuddy.io/embed/docs/concepts/defaults.md
---
# Defaults & merging

Partial `chartData` is merged over ChartBuddy defaults when you create or update an Insight.

## Deep-merge keys

These nested objects deep-merge:

* `title`
* `subtitle`
* `legend`
* `axes`
* `canvas`
* `footnote`
* `annotations`

Other top-level keys typically replace.

## Practical tip

Start minimal (`chartType` + `seriesData` + title/subtitle/legend). Add axes or annotations only when you need them, or export a full config from the editor and trim.
