Using predefined formulas (functions)


A function is simply a predefined formula with a set name, such as TextToDate. Functions perform a particular calculation and return a single value. FileMaker comes with more than 150 functions. All those functions are available via the right-hand list within the Specify Calculation dialog box, but scrolling through the whole list for one function would be a bother. Instead, use the top-right drop-down menu to display handier portions of the list (Figure 9.29). Try several choices to see which set of functions best suits your needs (Figure 9.30).

Figure 9.29. Use the Specify Calculation dialog box's View drop-down menu to fine-tune your view of FileMaker's 150+ built-in functions.


Figure 9.30. The View pop-up menu helps you quickly find the function you need.


Functions have three parts: the predefined function, the parameters used by the function, and a set of parentheses enclosing the parameter. In almost all cases, FileMaker functions follow this syntax, or order:

Function name(parameter)

For example: TextToDate(time) or Average(field)

The parameter (the value within the parentheses) can be a field reference, a constant, an expression, or another function. Sometimes a function needs more than one parameter, in which case you'll separate each parameter from the next parameter with a comma or semicolon:

Average (field1, field2, field3)

In this example, field1, field 2, and field3 are just placeholders for the actual field reference you'd place into the formula.

Calculation Results: Once the formula runs, it displays the calculation as a result. The result can take several formstext, number, date, time, or containerwhich you control via the Specify Calculation dialog box. See To change the display of calculation results on page 122.



FileMaker Pro 8 for Windows and Macintosh(c) Visual Quickstart Guide
FileMaker Pro 8 for Windows & Macintosh
ISBN: 032139674X
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2006
Pages: 184
Authors: Nolan Hester

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