It is possible to hide certain variables from the list in (Designer Mode) when making tables. Hidden variables will not be offered in the variable list in the Table Maker view (variables will always remain visible in Editor Mode). By hiding variables that are not used in Designer mode (for instance variables pertaining to the length of the questionnaire, or variables that are used to build multiple response variable), you will keep the variable list short and variables easier to find.
To hide variables, simply select the variables from the variables list in Editor Mode, and click either "Hide" or "Show" in the top menu. You can also double click on the variable and unset the 'Visible' checkbox.
The variables you have hidden will not disappear in Editor Mode, but they will remain visible with a different colour (grey).