How can I fix this?

clear all; close all; clc; format compact

x1 = 2
sqrt = sqrt(x1)
x2 = sqrt^2
y1 = 3
st = sqrt(y1)
y2 = st1^2

Index exceeds the number of array elements. Index must not exceed 1.
Error in Debugging_7_Eduardo_Gallegos (line 6)
st = sqrt(y1) 

I'm not sure what to do to fix this error

Answer 1

[dpb]

Don't alias the builtin sqrt function by assign a value to it and thereby turning the reference to sqrt into a variable.

sqrt = sqrt(x1)

just wiped out the function of the same name by hiding it behind the variable of the same name.

x1 = 2;
sqr_x = sqrt(x1);
x2 = sqr_x^2;
...

will save your bacon.

MORAL: Don't EVER use a builtin function name as a variable!!!

NOTA BENE: You'll then need to

clear sqrt

to rid the workspace of the variable before going on...your first line I didn't put into the code will do the deed as well, but is way overkill for almost all uses (excepting if the instructor makes it a requirement for grading purposes).

[Eduardo Gallegos]

Thank you, I can't believe I didn't think of that.

[dpb]

Don't feel bad...everybody does that at some point or another in their learning curve...and sometimes the most obvious is the hardest to see having made a blunder.