4th Dimension follows a strict left-to-right evaluation of operator precedence, regardless of algebraic order.

If you need to enforce operator precedence, use parenthesis.

For example, the following code would probably not work as the developer expected:


[Test]ModeDb:=Num(Compiled application) * "Comp" + Num(Not(Compiled application)) * "Int."


Here is a simplified version:


[Test]ModeDb:= Num * Text + Num * Text


Using parentheses for emphasis, here is how this expression is evaluated:


[Test]ModeDb:= ( ( Num * Text ) + Num ) * Text


This code will not even compile because it is a syntax error to add a text value to a number value.

Generally when you are unsure of precedence, or in this case, associativity, it is best to make the code clear by using parenthesis.

So instead of using this:


[Test]ModeDb:= Num * Text + Num * Text


Write it this way. It will compile and read cleaner:


[Test]ModeDb:= ( Num * Text ) + ( Num * Text )


For more information on operator precedence in 4D see:
http://www.4d.com/docs/CMU/CMU02014.HTM