When entering what looks like a valid calculation using ClarisWorks for Windows 3.x, the system will come back with a BAD FORMULA dialog and will not allow you to enter the calculation into the database or spreadsheet document.
Many functions in ClarisWorks 3.x require more than one parameter to work properly. For example the DATE function requires parameters for MONTH, DAY, and YEAR. When entering in this calculation, ClarisWorks expects that each parameter be separated by a comma (by default).
Example:
Date ('year value','month value','day value')
Date ('95','12','25')
In the INTERNATIONAL section of the CONTROL PANEL, there is a setting for LIST SEPARATOR. The value for list separator is normally a comma. If it is set to anything else, there is a possibility that will affect the entering of calculations within ClarisWorks. If possible, it is recommended that you change the LIST SEPARATOR to a comma, restart ClarisWorks and reenter your calculation(s).
If the LIST SEPARATOR cannot be changed, then it is still possible to create valid calculations within ClarisWorks. To do so, you will need to enter the calculations manually (as opposed to clicking on functions and fields) and substitute the value which is entered in the LIST SEPARATOR with all the commas in your calculation(s). NOTE: This is not recommended and may not work in all circumstances. Using a comma will always assure a valid calculation.
Example:
LIST SEPARATOR = #
An example of valid calculations based on the LIST SEPARATOR being a "#" would be:
Date ('year value'#'month value'#'day value')
If ('Field A' = 'Field B'#'Field C'#'Field D')
Average (2#4#6)
This does not seem to be a problem with ClarisWorks for Windows 1.0
This is also an issue for FileMaker Pro files created on the Macintosh platform and translated to the Windows platform as the different platforms use different separators. Again, the solution will be the same. Set up the separators in the INTERNATIONAL section of the CONTROL PANEL as mentioned above.