mp_0040: Using the return value of a function

Since R2024b

Guideline Publication

Control Algorithm Modeling Guidelines - Using MATLAB^®, Simulink^®, and Stateflow^®

• Version 6.0

Sub ID Recommendations

• NA-MAAB — a

• JMAAB — a

MATLAB Versions

All

Rule

Sub ID a

The return values of functions shall be assigned to variables before use.

Example — Correct

ret1 = func1(arg1);
ret2 = func2(arg2);
ret = ret1 + ret2;

Example — Incorrect

ret = func1(arg1) + func2(arg2);

Rationale

Sub ID a:

• Although it is not syntactically incorrect to use the return values of functions directly, the results may vary depending on the order of the function evaluation.

  Readability improves where the return values of functions are assigned to variables before use, rather than where the return values are used directly in operations.

Verification

Model Advisor check: Check for utilization of the return value of functions (Simulink Check)

Last Changed

R2024b