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

# Developing data models with NEAT

> Develop, validate, and deploy data models to Cognite Data Fusion with the NEAT toolkit.

NEAT offers a guided data modeling experience and supports data model development, validation, and deployment through multiple interfaces. Most users combine Jupyter Notebooks with [NeatSession](/cdf/deploy/neat/reference/session) and the [spreadsheet data model template](/cdf/deploy/neat/data_modeling/excel/physical/overview). NEAT includes an extensive library of validators that ensure your data model adheres to best practices and performs well.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Data modeling principles" icon="database" href="/cdf/deploy/neat/data_modeling/principles">
    Learn principles and best practices for data modeling within your organization.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Excel data modeling" icon="table" href="/cdf/deploy/neat/data_modeling/excel/physical/overview">
    Use spreadsheet templates to define physical data models.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Validation rules" icon="list-checks" href="/cdf/deploy/neat/validation/index">
    Explore the 38+ validation rules
  </Card>

  <Card title="Reference" icon="book" href="/cdf/deploy/neat/reference">
    NeatSession, NeatConfig, and alpha flags reference.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Setting up" icon="download" href="/cdf/deploy/neat/installation">
    Install NEAT and set up your environment with CDF Notebooks or locally.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Tutorial" icon="graduation-cap" href="/cdf/deploy/neat/tutorials/introduction">
    Introduction to NEAT with a hands-on tutorial.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>