Functions
This page needs a recent browser (with SharedArrayBuffer support). Please update Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari to the latest version.
Functions
- A function is a named block of code you can run again and again.
function name(params) { ... return value; }. Theparamsare the inputs.returnhands a value back to whoever called the function.
function square(n) {
return n * n;
}
console.log(square(6)); // → 36
Functions that just do something
- A function can do something (like print) instead of returning a value.
- Call it by writing its name and brackets:
greet("Ada").
function greet(name) {
console.log("Hi, " + name); // → Hi, Ada
}
greet("Ada");
Explore
Call and return
Each call runs the body with its own input, then return hands a value back.
Watch out
- The names in the brackets (
n,name) are parameters — they only exist inside the function. - A function with no
returngives backundefined. Addreturnwhen you want an answer out.
Common mistakes
returngives back a value; without it a function returnsundefined.- Call the function with
().
Now you try
- Write each function — it is called for you in the check.
- Press Check answer to test it.
Write a function double(n) that returns n times 2.
Click Run to see the output here.
Write a function add(a, b) that returns a + b.
Click Run to see the output here.
Write a function greet(name) that logs Hi, then the name, then call greet("Ada"). Output should be Hi, Ada.
Click Run to see the output here.