I am writing a database for a newspaper classified system which involves inputting text into a field. Does anyone know of a way of carrying out a word count in a field and then for the resulting calculation to be transferred to another field.

Define a calculated field:

WordCount (calculation, number, unstored) = WordCount(TextField)

-bd

hmmmmm bit confused can someone expand on this??

In Define Fields, create a new field. Call it WordNbr (to differentiate it from Live Oak's example--he gave the field the same name as the function). Make this a Calculation field by checking the field type radio button (text, number, global, etc.).

In your options, make the calculation result unstored, and the result a number, rather than text.

A window will open where you are to enter the actual calculation for the field. The top left will be a list of functions. Scroll down to the WordCount function and double click it. It will appear in the lower calculation window.

Where it says "text" in parentheses, replace this word with your original text field name, either by typing it or by selecting it in the field list in the upper left. Do not place the field name in quotes.

That's it. When you click Done, your database will grind away, calculating the word count in all records you already have, then the new WordNbr field will appear on your layout. You can then format it, move it around, etc., even use the result in other calculations.

By leaving it Unstored, this field will recalculate on the fly. Place the field next to your main text entry field, then delete a word in an entry. The WordNbr field count should drop by one, then go back up when you add the word back.

Steve Brown