40d:Preferences

Each dwarf prefers particular materials, objects, animals, and foods, and also has a personality. This information can be brought up either by typing v from the unit list, or by showing a dwarf and then typing p for Prefs, z to view profile, and enter to view thoughts and preferences.

All of this information is used by the game.

A dwarf with a preference for a materials or object will produce higher-quality results for a given skill when working with that raw material or making that object. This is especially important in cases where you're short of raw materials to train on, as even a dabbling dwarf with the right preferences can occasionally produce quality objects. The dwarf above is not only an ideal candidate to become a glassmaker, she has real potential as a carpenter or even trapper as well.

Dwarves prefer particular foods and/or drinks. They will (probably) seek them out instead of always choosing whatever's closest^[Verify], and get a more intense happiness boost from a given quality of food or drink. The dwarf above will be especially grateful if you find some turtles or include quarry bush leaves in your prepared meals.

Dwarven personality is a newer addition to Dwarf Fortress and still a work in progress. Also "under construction" is our knowledge of what precisely "feels strong urges and seeks short-term rewards" means. We do know - because Toady One has said so - that there are at least a dozen or so places in the game that use personality to determine dwarven actions, so they're worth keeping in mind. The above dwarf is probably not the best choice for a expedition leader, as she is neither particularly sociable nor good at appeasing, intimidating, or comforting dwarves who come to her with troubles.