Local functions in MATLAB - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a local function in MATLAB?

A local function is a function defined inside a script or another function file. It can only be called within that file and helps organize code into smaller parts.

beginner

Where can you define local functions in MATLAB?

Local functions are defined at the end of a script or function file, after the main code or primary function ends.

intermediate

Can local functions access variables from the main script or function directly?

No, local functions have their own workspace. They cannot directly access variables from the main script or function unless those variables are passed as input arguments.

intermediate

Why use local functions instead of separate function files?

Local functions keep related code together in one file, making it easier to read and maintain. They also avoid cluttering the folder with many small files.

beginner

Example of calling a local function inside a MATLAB function file:

<pre>function main()
  result = addTwoNumbers(3, 5);
  disp(result);
end

function sum = addTwoNumbers(a, b)
  sum = a + b;
end</pre>

Where are local functions defined in a MATLAB file?

A Inside a loop

B At the beginning of the script

C At the end of the script or function file

D In a separate file

Local functions are always defined at the end of the script or function file after the main code.

Can a local function access variables from the main function without inputs?

A Yes, always

B Only if variables are declared as persistent

C Only if variables are global

D No, it has its own workspace

Local functions have their own workspace and cannot access variables from the main function unless passed as inputs.

What is a benefit of using local functions?

A They keep related code together in one file

B They can be called from any script

C They run faster than separate files

D They automatically share variables with the main script

Local functions help organize code by keeping related functions in the same file.

How do you call a local function inside the same MATLAB file?

A By typing its name with inputs inside the main function

B By importing it first

C By using the 'call' keyword

D By running it separately

You call a local function by using its name and passing required inputs inside the main function or script.

Which of these is true about local functions?

A They must be saved in separate files

B They are defined after the main code in the same file

C They can be accessed from other files

D They share variables with the base workspace

Local functions are defined after the main code in the same file and cannot be accessed from other files.

Explain what a local function is in MATLAB and why you might use one.

Think about how local functions help keep code tidy and where they live in a file.

Describe how variable scope works with local functions in MATLAB.

Consider how local functions see variables compared to the main script.