0
$\begingroup$

This is my code

xyzzy = 1;
Hold[xyzzy] // ToString // StringLength

The output is 11.

This 2nd one below.

ClearAll[xyzzy]
 ToString[xyzzy] // StringLength]

The output is 5.

Why is this?

I think these 2 codes will be the same output

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
11
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ the result of Hold[xyzzy] is Hold[xyzzy] and that is 11 characters long. When xyzzy has not been assigned any value then the ToString[xyzzy] will be the string xyzzy and that is 5 characters long. $\endgroup$
    – Bill
    Sep 4, 2020 at 2:24
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ @Bill How can I fix this? How can make it have the same output? $\endgroup$
    – kile
    Sep 4, 2020 at 2:28
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ What output is the desired? 5, 11, or 1? $\endgroup$
    – xzczd
    Sep 4, 2020 at 3:03
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ Possibly HoldForm[xyzzy] // ToString // StringLength does what you want? $\endgroup$
    – Carl Woll
    Sep 4, 2020 at 4:16
  • $\begingroup$ Hold[xyzzy] // ToString // StringLength[#] - 6 &? $\endgroup$
    – kglr
    Sep 4, 2020 at 5:54

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2
$\begingroup$

Your first code acts as below line:

StringLength["Hold[xyzzy]"]

And second one acts as below line:

StringLength["xyzzy"]

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.