42、Mastering User-Defined Functions and Alternative Shells in Linux

Mastering User-Defined Functions and Alternative Shells in Linux

1. User-Defined Functions in gawk

In gawk, you’re not restricted to using only the built - in functions. You can create your own functions for use in gawk programs.

1.1 Defining a Function

To define your own function, you must use the function keyword:

function name([variables])
{
   statements
}

The function name should uniquely identify your function. You can pass one or more variables into the function from the calling gawk program. For example:

function printthird()
{
   print $3
}

This function prints the third data field in the record.

A function can also return a value using