I know this question will sound pretty dumb, but I have to ask.

When a field is defined as unstored ("A calculation field with a result

that is only calculated when the value is needed" per FileMaker documentation),

once the calculation does take place is the value literally stored, or is

it only calculated and displayed whenever that specific record is viewed (thus

saving storage space on disk)?

Thanks.

-- Pat

You got it. Saving space utility. Unstored = unstored.

Yes,

When you select 'Unstored' for a calculation, the formula is saved but the values are not.

This is a trade-off between file size and processor time, but it has other implications as well.

If a value is stored it can be indexed and therefore used for value lists and relationship keys. Instored values can't.

On the other hand, unstored values have the advantage that they automatically update constantly, so they are necessary in some circumstances, such as when a Status function, a global field or a related field is included in the calculation formula.