FileMaker Pro 4.1 Mac User's Guide

Appendix C: Summary of functions
Understanding functions
A function is a predefined, named formula that performs a specific
calculation and returns a single, specific value. You use functions when
you are defining calculation fields. You can use functions by themselves
or combine them with other functions or expressions.
This appendix summarizes the FileMaker Pro functions by category. For
detailed information about functions, see FileMaker Pro Help.
Important In the United States, commas act as list separators in
functions, formulas, and calculations. In other countries, semicolons
might be used as list separators. The separator being used depends on the
operating system your computer uses, as well as the one used when the
file was created.
Important Before you read this appendix, be sure you understand
formulas and how to define calculations, as explained in “Understanding
formulas” on page 2-13. In addition, be sure you know how to use
FileMaker Pro Help, as explained in the preface, “Getting help.”
With a few exceptions, all FileMaker Pro functions use the following
syntax:
Function name(parameter)
This part Represents
Function name The calculation to perform
parameter The value or expression on which the calculation is performed. Most
functions require one or more parameters. A parameter can be a
constant, a field name, or another function.
( ) The beginning and end of the parameter