> #### 5.6.1 Expression Builder

> The Expression Builder is a user interface for building JavaScript expressions. With the Expression Builder, you can select expression building blocks and build your expression by adding the "blocks" into the expression. This tends to be an easier and faster method of building an expression, especially if you are unfamiliar with the JavaScript syntax used in expressions.

> The following illustration is the Expression Builder user interface:

> Figure 47: The Expression Builder

> The Expression Builder helps you create more effective and viable expressions in less time and with less chance for making time-consuming hard-to-find errors. Functions and variables are selected from drop-down menus, and the Expression Builder has a built-in expression verification mechanism that automatically checks the validity of expressions you have built before they are used.

> It consists of the following parts:

> Expression Display: This is where your expression displays as it is built.

> Verify Button: You can verify the validity of your expression as you build it. Verification also occurs when you click OK. Invalid expressions will cause an error message that provides diagnostic information.

> Operands Frame: In this frame, you can select a function or an available variable from the drop-down lists or type in a constant, then add it to your expression with the add button.

> The standard JavaScript functions are available.

> Available variables are the ones you defined as user-defined attributes in the case of the action editors. When using triggers, they are the database items that you have defined.

> Operators Frame: In this frame, you can add an operator to your expression by clicking it. The standard JavaScript operators are available.

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