Javascript Array
An array is a variable that can store many variables. Many programmers have seen
arrays in other languages and they aren't that different in Javascript.
The following points should always be remembered when using arrays
in Javascript:
- The array is a special type of variable.
- Values are stored into an array by using the array name and
by stating the location in the array you wish to store the value in brackets.
Example:
myArray[2] = "Hello World";
- Values in an array are accessed with the array name and location
of the value.
Example:
myArray[2];
- Javascript has built in functions for arrays, so check out these
built in array functions before writing code yourself!
Creating a Javascript Array
Creating an array is slightly different than creating a normal variable. Because
Javascript has variables and properties associated with arrays, you have to
use a special function to create a new array. This example shows how
you would create a simple array, store values to it and access these values.
Javascript Code:
<script type="text/javascript">
<!--
var myArray = new Array();
myArray[0] = "Baseball";
myArray[1] = "Cricket";
myArray[2] = "Football";
document.write(myArray[0] + myArray[1] + myArray[2]);
//-->
</script>
Display:
Notice that you set values and get values from an array by specifying the position, in brackets,
of the value you want to use.
Javascript Array Sorting
Imagine that you wanted to sort an array alphabetically before you wrote
the array to the browser. Well, this code has already been written and can
be accessed by using the Array'ssort method.
Javascript Code:
<script type="text/javascript">
<!--
var myArray = new Array();
myArray[0] = "Baseball";
myArray[1] = "Cricket";
myArray[2] = "Football";
myArray.sort();
document.write(myArray[0] + myArray[1] + myArray[2]);
//-->
</script>
Display:
Javascript Array: Other Resources
Arrays are a very complex area of programming, especially
in Javascript. This lesson could not possible cover all the areas
of Javascript arrays, but we have compiled some useful resources for you
to check out!
- Javascript Array Object - General information
about the Javascript Array Object.
- Dev Guru Array Methods - A large collection
of all the things you shouldn't program for an array because they have all been done for you!
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