Use the Element sub-object level when you want to select and work on all contiguous faces in an element. The Element sub-object level is essential when you are Shift+cloning and Shift+extruding patches, because doing so creates separate elements. For example, if you select a patch, hold down the Shift key, and move the patch to a new location, a new element is created separate from the original. This also applies to extrusion. If you hold the Shift key down while you extrude, a new element is created.
For information on the controls in this rollout, see Selection Rollout (Editable Patch).
See Soft Selection Rollout for information on the Soft Selection rollout settings.