Function definition syntax in MATLAB - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the basic syntax to define a function in MATLAB?

Use the function keyword followed by the output variable(s), the function name, and input variable(s). Example:<br>

function output = functionName(input)

beginner

How do you define a function with multiple outputs in MATLAB?

List the output variables inside square brackets separated by commas. Example:<br>

function [out1, out2] = myFunction(in1, in2)

intermediate

Where must the function definition be placed in a MATLAB file?

The function definition must be the first executable line in the file if it is a function file. If the file contains multiple functions, the first function is the main function, and others are local functions below it.

beginner

Can MATLAB functions have no input or no output arguments? How?

Yes. For no inputs, just omit input variables:<br><pre>function output = myFunction()</pre><br>For no outputs, omit output variables:<br><pre>function myFunction(input)</pre>

intermediate

What happens if you do not specify output variables in a MATLAB function?

The function will not return any output to the caller. It can still perform actions like displaying results or modifying files, but no data is returned.

Which keyword starts a function definition in MATLAB?

A function

B def

C func

D begin

MATLAB uses the keyword function to define functions.

How do you define a function with two outputs named a and b?

A function [a, b] = myFunc()

B function a, b = myFunc()

C function (a, b) = myFunc()

D function a b = myFunc()

Multiple outputs are enclosed in square brackets separated by commas.

Where should the main function be placed in a MATLAB file?

A Inside a script section

B At the top of the file

C At the bottom of the file

D Anywhere in the file

The main function must be the first executable line in the file.

What is the correct way to define a function with no inputs but one output?

A function out = myFunc

B function myFunc()

C function out = myFunc()

D function myFunc

Use empty parentheses to indicate no inputs.

If a MATLAB function does not specify output variables, what happens?

A It causes an error

B It returns the first input

C It returns a default variable

D No output is returned

Without output variables, the function returns nothing to the caller.

Explain the syntax to define a MATLAB function with multiple outputs and inputs.

Think about how you list outputs and inputs in the function line.

Describe where and how you place function definitions inside a MATLAB file.

Consider the order of functions in the file.