An argument is a programming term for a statement that calls on and activates a certain routine, value or option from a selection of pre-defined ones. These predefined items are, of course, set by the developer before they are called. This routine value or option is then used when data is processed.
Technipages Explains Argument
Values can be whatever they are set to, and routines can be created and defined in advance, in order to perform necessary functions as they are needed by the main program. Separating functions and certain routines out in arguments means that the overall code block is less repetitive and shorter, making it easier to work with and review later.
An example: A routine that is supposed to round numbers to their second decimal place is used with something called a parameter – that parameter is the number that is being rounded, and it will (or at least can) be different every time that argument is called, and the routine is performed. This means that any number that is given as the parameter is then rounded accordingly.
A less common usage of the term argument refers to command-line interfaces like spreadsheets, and similar applications that rely on typed commands following a certain structure or syntax. These typed commands are the arguments in question, and they determine how the command is ultimately carried out.
Common Uses of Argument
- An argument in a spreadsheet program could be a query, for example.
- In programming, the usage of arguments helps keep things simple when it comes to the main block of code.
- Arguments are useful for separating out repeated sections of code that would be copied and pasted if it weren’t for the argument.
Common Misuses of Argument
- Arguments are the variables that differ each time a routine is called.
