Using Variables 431
Using (linking) variables
Sharing, or linking, the variables you create is a powerful tool for math
exploration. The display of linked variables is automatically updated
when the variable’s value changes.
Linking to shared variables
To use a stored variable:
1. Display the page and select the location or object to which you want
to link a variable.
2. Select the Variables tool
h.
The Variables options are displayed. The software knows which types
of variables will work in the location or with the object selected and
will only display those variables.
3. Use 9 and : to scroll the list, or type part of the variable name.
As you type, the system displays a list of variables that begin with the
letters you typed. Typing part of the name enables you to locate a
variable more quickly if the list is long.
4. When you locate and highlight the name of the variable you want to
use, click the name or press
·.
The selected variable value is linked.
Linking a Lists & Spreadsheet cell to a variable
When you link a cell to a variable, Lists & Spreadsheet keeps the cell
value updated to reflect the current value of the variable. The variable
can be any variable in the current problem and can be defined in Graphs
& Geometry, Calculator, or any instance of Lists & Spreadsheet.
Note: Do not link to a system variable. Doing so could prevent the
variable from being updated by the system. System variables include ans,
StatMatrix, and statistics results (such as RegEqn, dfError, and Resid).
1. Click the cell that you want to link to the variable.
2. Open the VarLink menu:
– Click , then click
Cell.
– Handheld: Press h.
The VarLink menu displays.