Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around how to comment out parts of code in Mathematica, exploring different methods and syntax for achieving this, including comparisons to other programming languages like PHP and Fortran. The scope includes technical explanations and practical usage within Mathematica.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Exploratory
Main Points Raised
- One participant inquires about a command in Mathematica to comment out a sentence or part of a sentence, similar to syntax in PHP and Fortran.
- Another participant confirms that the syntax for comments in Mathematica is to use (* ... *), but questions if there are other methods available.
- A further reply explains the difference between comment styles in various languages, highlighting that Mathematica's comment syntax allows for mid-line comments, unlike the others mentioned.
- Another participant suggests an alternative approach involving separating code into different cells and changing cell properties to prevent evaluation, while also proposing a more unconventional method of defining an unused character as a non-evaluating operator, though expressing uncertainty about its feasibility and appropriateness.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the use of the standard comment syntax in Mathematica, but there is uncertainty regarding alternative methods and their appropriateness, indicating that multiple views remain on the best approach.
Contextual Notes
The discussion does not resolve whether the unconventional method of defining an unused character as a non-evaluating operator is practical or advisable, leaving this as an open question.