# LEN() Function
**YouTube:** [How to Use the Len Function in Report Custom Columns?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a_VwqzlEds)
## How to Use the Len Function in Report Custom Columns?
In this tutorial, we will learn how to create expressions using the **`LEN` function**, which calculates the number of characters (length) in a given field such as `Item Code`. You’ll apply this function both in the **grid view** and within a **report layout**.
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### Accessing the Expression Designer:
* Open Sale Voucher or any document.
* Navigate to the "**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.
### 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.
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### Define the LEN Function Expression
* Double-click the newly created expression to insert it into the script editor.
* Enter the function using the following syntax:
* Expression Name = LEN(ITEM\_CODE)
* Click **Save** to apply the expression.
* Scroll down and **check the box** next to your expression to display it in the data grid.
* Save and proceed to check the effect.
* The grid will now display a new column showing the **length** of each Item Code.
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### Applying the Expression in a Report
* Navigate to the **Reporting** section.
* Open the **Sales Register Detailed Report** or any **"Report".**
* Go to **Setup Column Attributes** as you did earlier.
* 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.*
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### Adding and Using the Expression in the Report
* Return to **"Setup Column Attribute"** window.
* Click **"Add/Edit Expression Columns"**.
* 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.
* Double-click the expression to insert it into the script editor.
* Define the expression using:
* Expression Name = LEN("ITEM\_CODE")
* This function converts the item name to uppercase letters.
* Click **Save**.
* Scroll down and **check the box** to enable the expression column in the report.
* Save and proceed to check the effect.
* **Refresh the report** to view the final result.
* The report will now display a column showing the **length of each Item Code** as per the defined expression.
***
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