Overview

PhixFlow sometimes needs code-like instruction to achieve dynamic behaviour. Usually these are simple, short pieces of code called Expressions. Longer, complex expressions are usually called Scripts. For useful expressions that you want to reuse in different places, you can put the expression into a Macro.

Expression Editor

Usually a dynamic field is expecting an expression. In some cases, a dynamic field expects different code, such as an SQL statement. If you want to use an expression in this type of field, enclose it in curly brackets.

Expressions can also include attributes or Internal Variables, depending on the context, which you create yourself. As these are prefixed with the $-symbol they are called $-variables.

To find out what code a dynamic field expects, or which internal variables are available, check the help for the properties tab in which you are working. At the top of the properties tab, click  Help.

PhixScript

Expression editors display symbols to indicate whether they are expecting PhixScript or Embedded PhixScript.

Large Editor

When working on large expressions or scripts it can be useful to use the option,  Show field in a large editor. When working in the large editor, the content can be saved to the  Properties tab without closing the larger editor window by clicking Save. 

As well as internal variables, PhixFlow has lots of Functions that you can use in expressions.

Learn More

The pages in this topic provide information on writing your own expressions, from simple assignments to complex looping operations.