# sortBy The sort descriptors that tell the fetch how to order its results. ``` var sortBy: [SortDescriptor] ``` ## Discussion Use this property to specify how to arrange the collection of models that a fetch returns. For example, if your app defines a `Person` model, you may want to sort by the `surname` attribute, then by the `firstName` attribute. The fetch applies the sort descriptors in the same order as they appear in the array. The default value is the array you specify when calling [`init(predicate:sortBy:)`](/documentation/SwiftData/FetchDescriptor/init(predicate:sortBy:)). --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)