User FAQs

If you have a question, please send it to us.

1) Should I prefix my variables with a data type indicator ?
Yes. All variables should be prefixed with an abbreviation that indicates their data type.
In VBA, type conversions can be implicit, so this reduces errors and improves readability.
For a list of all the prefixes, please refer to the Data Types page.

Dim sMyString As String 
Dim lMyNumber As Long 

2) When declaring variables should I use Private ?
For global level variables use "Public"
For module level variables use "Private"
For local level variables use "Dim"

Public sText As String 
Private sText As String 
Dim sText As String 

3) Should I use the abbreviated type declaration characters ?
No. This method of declaring variables is only available for backwards compatibility purposes. more details

Dim sFirstName$     'String  
Dim lAverage&       'Long  

4) What is a Static Variable ?
A static variable is a local variable whose value will be preserved within the subroutine or function.
A static variable has the scope of a local variable but the lifetime of a module level variable.
A static variable is only visible in the subroutine or function where it is declared.
You should always initialise a static variable before using it.

Public Sub MySubroutine() 
   Static iStatic As Integer 
End Sub 

5) How is a Static Variable different to a Module Level Variable ?
A static variable will preserve its value but will not be visible outside the subroutine or function.
A module level variable will preserve its value and will be visible to all the other subroutines and functions in that module.

Public sOutside1 As String 
Private sOutside2 As String 

Public Function MyFunction() As Integer 
   Static iStatic As Integer 
End Sub 

6) Can you explain the difference between the Stack and the Heap ?
The stack contains value data types on a first in, first out basis.
The stack stores items on a last in first out basis
The stack is where local variables are stored.
The heap contains reference data types.
The heap is where global variables are stored

7) What is the difference between Early Binding and Late Binding ?
Early binding allows for compile-time checking and requires you to explicitly declare the data type of the object.
Late binding relies on run-time checking and uses the generic Object data type.