Why cant I create a function in MatLab student version?

When I try to create a function i keep getting this error Error: Function definitions are not permitted in this context.

Here is the code I wrote

function sum = myfirst(v,w)

then I get the mentioned error

Answer 1

[Image Analyst]

You forgot to attach your m-file. Most likely, you wrote a script, say test.m, and inside there it starts off with a script and then you include the function below it in the same file, like this

clc;
result = myfirst(10,20);

function theSum = myfirst(v,w)
  theSum = v+w;

To fix, declare test a function also so that you have two functions in the file, not a script and a function, like

function test()
  clc;
  myfirst(10,20);

function theSum = myfirst(v,w)
  theSum = v+w;

If this does not fix your problem, then attach your m-file(s).

[Image Analyst]

Also note I used "theSum" instead of sum(). You never, or almost never, want to use the name of a built-in function, particularly one as important as sum(), as the name of one of your variables.

[Tony Montgomery]

Ive tried everything and it still won't work. Its not something silly like you can create a function in the student version?

[John D'Errico]

No, there is no issue with the student version. My guess is you are just not understanding the difference between m-files in general, functions and scripts. Spend some time reading about them.

[Tony Montgomery]

I got it, I am very new to this and my homework tutorial is pretty bland. I understand now about the m files and you have to create an m file and so on. Thanks for the help! Much appreciated!

[Image Analyst]

You marked it as accepted, but the comment before last you said "it still won't work" and you didn't attach your m-file like I suggested, so is everything working or not? Again, if you need more help, attach your m-file.

Answer 2

[per isakson]

Because function sum = myfirst(v,w) must be the first executable line of the m-file. Read Function Basics, Create functions, including anonymous, local, and nested functions