On Sat, 13 Jan 2001, Brandon Allen wrote:
> as i look at mod docs for circle i see blocks of code such as this
> that are now WAY diffrent
>
> [snip]
>
> may i ask why the this wqas changed ... ?
For a variety of reasons, a few of which I can think of immediately:
1. It paves the way for people to use algorithms rather than a set of
values. If tables were still used, they would have to go through and
and modify the code that calls upon the tables to make this change;
now, they need only change the function to what they want. Users
gain flexibility at no tangible expense.
2. Error reporting or returning of a default value for out-of-range
levels. Sometimes people up the levels without checking for side
effects or other requirements. Using a function, you can report the
out-of-range errors or simply return a default value. Users gain an
error-check or fallback at no tangible expense.
3. The table entries eventually get out of hand. If someone adds enough
levels, enough classes, it quickly becomes a mess of numbers. While
the switch/case is going to be longer, it retains readability. Users
gain cleanliness at no tangible expense.
As for the WTFAQ, send them to the author. See:
http://developer.circlemud.org/documentation/wtfaq/
-dak
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