You have two options when it comes time to save your script file. You can choose to compile and save the file with one keystroke. You can also choose to save the file without compiling. Both save options are described below.
After you have created a new script or function, you can choose the Compile option from the File menu or press CTRL+S to save and compile your script file. This action causes the script compiler to examine each of the scripts and functions contained in the script file. The compiler checks each statement in those scripts and functions making sure the syntax is correct.
When the compiler finds an error, the compilation process is stopped and the Compile Error message dialog is displayed. This dialog advises you what type of error the compiler encountered with the Ok button being the active control. To clear the dialog after you have reviewed the cause of the error, press SPACEBAR to activate the Ok button or ESCAPE to close the dialog.
After you have cleared the dialog, the insertion point is placed in the line containing the error. At this point, you should review the line making sure the statement is correct. You may also find the line containing the insertion point does not contain the error. Many times a previous statement with incorrect syntax can cause an error in a line following it. In cases such as this, you will need to review both the line containing the insertion point and any preceding lines.
Although the compiler checks the syntax of script statements, it does not check spelling or logic. As you add function calls to the body of the script, you must make sure the name of the function is spelled correctly. Failure to spell the names of your functions correctly will result in run-time errors. A run-time error occurs when you begin testing your script and a problem occurs during the execution of the script.
When you hear "unknown function call to Function ABC" where ABC represents the name of a user-defined or built-in function, you can be assured you have a run-time error. You should go back to your script file and make sure all function names are spelled correctly.
You may not want to compile your script file immediately. You may find you need to save the file before you complete the script or function you are currently writing. If you try to save the file using CTRL+S, the script file is compiled and then saved. If your script is not complete, then the compiler could encounter errors causing the file not to be saved.
You can select the Save Without Compiling option from the File menu or press CTRL+W. When you choose this option, the script file is not compiled before it is saved. Instead, the file is saved much like you would save a document in a word processor or text editor. You can then come back to the file at a later date and continue working on the script or function.