Using Functions in Expressions
Built-in Functions
There is a variety of built-in functions available in the Report Designer. These functions can be accessed directly from the data dictionary, or from within the Expression Editor. Here is an example of a built-in function:
- {Trim(MyString)}
OR
- {Trim(MyDataSource, MyDataColumn)}
The use of the Trim function in the above examples removes leading and trailing spaces from the result in the report.
.NET Framework Methods
Beyond the built-in functions, you can use any available .Net Framework methods. The following examples apply to string expressions:
- {MyString.Trim()} – This eliminates leading and trailing spaces.
- {“Test”.ToUpper()} – This converts the characters in the value to upper case “EXAMPLE.”
- {MyString.Length} – This returns the length of the string. If the value of “MyString” is “Example,” the method would return 7.
The following examples apply to numerical expressions:
- {Math.Round(MyValue, 2)} – This rounds the number to two decimal places.
- {Math.Sqrt(MyValue)} – This returns the square root of “MyValue.”
- {MyValue.ToString() + “times.”} – This converts the number to a string, and adds the word “times.” When “MyValue” is 8, this returns “8 times.”
If methods are available in .NET for the type you are using in a report, you can use them without restriction.
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