FileMaker Set Variable — scope, naming, and when to use it

Beginner

Understand the difference between local and global variables, when to use each, and the naming conventions that keep scripts readable.

What you'll learn

The difference between local ($) and global ($$) variable scope
Naming conventions that make scripts easier to read and maintain
When to use repetitions and why you usually do not need them

Set Variable is one of the most-used script steps in FileMaker. Understanding the difference between local ($var) and global ($$var) scope — and knowing when each is appropriate — prevents subtle bugs that are hard to track down.

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Local variables: $ prefix

A local variable ($name) exists only for the duration of the currently running script. When the script ends, the variable is cleared. Local variables are the right choice for most scripting work.

FileMaker Script

Set Variable [ $customerId ; Value: Customers::id ]
Set Variable [ $count      ; Value: Get ( FoundCount ) ]
Set Variable [ $result     ; Value: "" ]

Looping through a found set in FileMaker FileMaker script triggers: OnObjectEnter, OnObjectExit, OnObjectSave, OnRecordCommit