Calculate values on the layout

[spand]

Hi,

what is a general approach in FM for calculating values without storing them in database? Can I add values from 2 fileds and print a result?

[Fitch]

Yes you can do that with button bars.

[rwoods]

As Fitch said, the only way to display something on a layout that is not stored in a field or global variable is the use a button bar, since you can display the result of a calculation on the text of the button. You can use any calculation for the text of the button, and it will be updated on screen. You can format the button bar in any way you wish, and you can also make the button do 'Nothing' and not even look like a button. 

[spand]

Thanks rwoods. 

Could you be so kind and provide a basic example within attached file?

example.fmp12

[Steve Martino]

Here ya go

exampleSMmod.fmp12

[Fitch]

9 hours ago, rwoods said:

As Fitch said, the only way ...

I didn't say it was the only way.

[rwoods]

Apologies @Fitch, I did put words into your mouth. As far as I know it is the only way to have FileMaker show a dynamic/changing value on a layout that is not stored in a global or a field.

[Fitch]

I think button bars are generally a good way to go, but e.g., merge variables, virtual lists, and web viewers are possibilities.