Learn Block Properties and Variants

Understanding Block Variants Through Names

Reader Mod displays the full technical name of blocks, which includes important information about their state and variant.

Reading Block Names

When you point at a block, the name shown in your action bar often includes details about:

• Orientation: Blocks like logs, stairs, or directional blocks show which way they're facing
• State: Whether a door is open or closed, if a furnace is lit, or if redstone is powered
• Variants: Color, wood type, or material differences

Using This Information

1. Point at similar-looking blocks to see how their names differ

2. Note the naming pattern—this helps you predict what other variants might exist

3. Use these names when searching for crafting recipes or building techniques

Practical Example

If you see a block you want to recreate, identifying it by name lets you search for its recipe or find it in the creative inventory. This is especially valuable in modded environments where blocks may have unfamiliar textures or when you're trying to match a specific building material.

The detailed names also help you understand game mechanics—for instance, seeing "powered" in a block's name tells you it's currently receiving a redstone signal.