Format() Function

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How to Use the Format () Function in Report Custom Columns?

In this tutorial, we’ll explore how to use the Format function to customize the displays style of dates and numbers in your reports.

Accessing the Expression Designer:

• Navigate to the Reporting section.

• Open the Sales Register Detailed Report or any "Report".

• Go to Setup Column Attributes.

• Here, you'll see a list of available columns that can be used to build expressions.

• Click on "Add/Edit Expression Columns" where you can write your expression using predefined functions.

• Before adding the expression to the report, go to Other Settings.

• Ensure the Script Editor is set to VBScript.

• Click Save.

  • Note: VBScript is the default for new configurations but always verify this setting.

Writing Your First Expression

• Every expression must start with the script header: '#@LSCRIPT

• Click the (+) Plus icon to create a new expression.

• Fill in the required fields:

  • Expression Name – A unique name for your expression.

  • Expression Type – Choose either Text or Numeric depending on the expected output.

Example 1: Format a Date (Bill Date)

• Double-click your newly created expression to insert it into the script editor.

• Define the expression using the syntax:

• Expression Name = FORMAT(CDATE(BILL_DATE),"dd MMMMM yyyy")

  • Format Start your Expression with Format Keyword that is used to apply styles in Date & Text.

  • CDate(BILL_DATE) converts the value to a date.

  • "dd-MMMM-yyyy" is the desired date format.

• Save the expression once defined.

• Scroll down and check the box beside the expression name to enable it.

• Save and proceed to check the effect.

• Refresh the report to view the final result.

• Result: Bill date will be shown like 09-June-2025.

Example 2: Format a Number (Rate with 2 Decimal Places)

• Click the (+) Plus icon to create a new expression.

• Double-click your newly created expression to insert it into the script editor.

• Define the expression using the syntax:

  • Expression Name = FORMAT(RATE_UNIT,"#0.00")

    • RATE is the numeric field name.

    • "#0.00" ensures two decimal places.

To format with 4 decimal places: Format(RATE, "#0.0000")

• Save the expression once defined.

• Scroll down and check the box beside the expression name to enable it.

• Save and proceed to check the effect.

• Refresh the report to view the final result.

Result: A rate like 123.5 will be shown as 123.50.

Summary