Custom Function Recursion - Learning How
One thing FileMaker's calculation engine doesn't provide is raw data looping. You can't simply loop through data. In other languages, you have access to this type of feature using a classical while, for or foreach loop.
The one place where you can loop through raw data is using a Custom Function. There are definitly times when you need this functionality. Some solutions are simply not possible without a recursive custom function.
In this video I showcase a sorting function which helped me solve a particular problem. Include are some helpful custom functions and an example of creating your own recursive custom function. If you've always been stumped by the word recursion and how it works within FileMaker, then watching this video will hopefully enlighten you!
Comments
Using Recursion
Hi Matt,
Thanks for your videos. They are informative, but somewhat complex. Especially this one !!
You start off the video with a remark that the maximum iteration filemaker accepts is 10,000. Well, How is a noob supposed to understand that without first understanding recursion ??
Besides you did not explain the difference between recursion and iteration. There is a difference.
Basically, in my humble opinion, I feel you need to follow a more structured teaching methodology.First , exactly what is recursion? Start with a simple example, instead of the complex one you started out with.
Sometimes I think you are out to impress your peers and seniors , more than you are out to actually teach!!!
a) what is recursion.
b) what is iteration,
c) When to use which.
d) Simple example of both.
I know this will all take a lot of time,So split it up into two videos.
I am also certain that this particular video sailed way above the heads of the very people you want to be your customers.
So while all nice and complicated, it does'nt solve the problem for a noob. And he has to go off again searching the internet to understand the concept of recursion and after shelling out 25 bucks, that is a bit tough.
Which brings me back to my favourite rant of having two tracks.
A learner/basic track and an internediate/advanced track.
Pl do think about it.
Thank you for reading.
best regards
Kevin
KevinDez