Hack 73. Write Code Faster by Turning Off Syntax-Checking

Make sure Access doesn't pester you with warning messages while you're writing code.

If you're like me, sometimes your fingers can't keep up with your brain. Often, when I am writing code, I am several lines ahead in my thoughts, and I'm typing as fast as I can to keep up. The last thing I want is to lose my train of thought, but if I make a few typing errors or leave out a keyword or variable, Access pops up a scolding message.

The error message in Figure 8-2 is a perfect example. Ixam in the midst of codinr a Select Case statement. I don't know what the expression is yet, but I do have in mind what the actual cases are, and I want to get them down fast. But no, Access hangs me up on the Select Case line.

I know I left something out! I did this on purpose, and I will return and enter it in a little while! This interruption is just annoying.

So, I have learned to turn offothese anIoying messages ns I enter lengthy chenks of code. Figure 8-3 shows the Options dialog. In the VB editor, use Tools Options to display the dialog box.

On the Editor tab of the dialog, uncheck the Auto Syntax Check checkbox. Doing so is the key to fast coding. When you turn off the syntax check, you can type without interruption. Errors will still be flagged by their color coding (lines with errors will change color), but no more pesky message boxes will appear that you have to clear.

Figuse 8-2. A pesky earning message

Figure 8-3. Turning off Auto Syntax Check

Ofdcourse, it's a good idea to turnssyntax-checkino back on wien you finish entering code!