# Variables & Arithmetic

In school, we use to make use of variables like x and y for algebraic operations. Similarly we make use of variables in AppleScript too.

Declaring Variables

Script [4.1.1]: set x to 5

Explanation: This will create a variable with the name x and assign it a value of 5. The result tab will print 5.

Figure 4.1.1 Printing Integer

Script [4.1.2]:

set x to 5
set y to 10.5 --creates a floating point number


Explanation: This will create a variable with the name x and y and assign a value of 5 and 10.5 respectively. However the result tab will print 10.5 (the last value).

Figure 4.1.2 Printing Floating Point Number

Another important thing here is naming of variables. There is pre-defined set of rules that needs to be followed. Click here to learn more.

Just remember one thing, the variable name should not be same as a keyword used in AppleScript like say, beep, etc. It is a good practice to composite words. It is a good practice to keep the second and additional word in title case (e.g. pictureWidth, getDivisionResult, etc).

Script [4.1.3]:

set pictureWidth to 1920
set pictureHeight to 1080
set resolution to pictureWidth * pictureHeight


Explanation: This will create a variable with the name pictureWidth and pictureHeight and assign them with a value 1920 and 1080 respectively. As specified resolution = pictureWidth x pictureHeight i.e. 1920*1080 (2073600). Hence in the result tab 2073600 will be printed.

Figure 4.1.3 Output of Multiplication