Why do my functions suddenly return values in ASCII code?

I have made simple functions in MatLab. For example:

function add(a,b)
    fprintf('%d + %d = %d\n',a,b,a+b);
end

This used to work. However, using MatLab again after a while, this same function now returns values in ASCII code. Basically, given the inputs "4" and "5",

Before:

4 + 5 = 9

Now:

52 + 53 = 105

I don't remember doing anything that would cause this change. Simply typing "4 + 5" in the command window returns 9, but the problem arises when I make functions. Advice would be appreciated. (Version: R2022a)

[KSSV]

What exactly you are expecting? The code works according to the way it is written.

[Stephen23]

"but the problem arises when I make functions."

The problem arises when you call functions:

https://www.mathworks.com/help/matlab/matlab_prog/command-vs-function-syntax.html

Solution: use function syntax.

[Winter Vee]

It works, but the output seems to be in ASCII code instead of the original numbers I put it. i.e. if I input "4" and "5", it displays the input as "52" and "53". I know it "means" the same thing, but I just want to fix the formatting if that makes sense.

[Stephen23]

"but I just want to fix the formatting if that makes sense."

Changing the formatting cannot "fix" the fact that you call the function with incorrect inputs.

Answer 1

[Walter Roberson]

You accidentally used "command function equivalence". When you name a function without using () then the arguments you input are passed to the function as character vectors.

add 4 5

52 + 53 = 105

add(4, 5)

4 + 5 = 9

function add(a,b)
    fprintf('%d + %d = %d\n',a,b,a+b);
end

[Winter Vee]

oh okay! thank you so much!

[Steven Lord]

This also commonly happens in a standalone application. See the "Using a MATLAB File You Plan to Deploy" section on this documentation page.