Access array created in another subroutine

[GunNam]

What is the most efficient way to access an array that is created in another subroutine.

An option for me is to keep the array and the code that accesses it in the same subroutine, but it causes a duplication of the same code because I need to do something several times.

Thank you in advance!

[Bob Phillips]

Declare the array as a public(or even private) variable at the head of the module, it is then available to all procedures in the project (or just that module if private).

[GunNam]

Thanks Bob.
Out of curiosity, is this more efficient than passing it by reference?

[Bob Phillips]

Efficient? I doubt there is anything in it, but it does of course use more memory because the variables are in scope for longer. But memory is rarely a consideration. I don't use such variables much personally, but that is because of my coding style/paradigm, not for efficiency or memory considerations.

[snb]

An option for me is to keep the array and the code that accesses it in the same subroutine, but it causes a duplication of the same code because I need to do something several times.

Can you explain what you mean by this ? I can't imagine any problem doing this.

[Bob Phillips]

Can you explain what you mean by this ? I can't imagine any problem doing this.

Code duplication is a bad idea, if you need to change a routine, you need to change it in several places.

[snb]

I do not understand what you mean by this. Please give an example.

[Bob Phillips]

You are asking a question about someone else's point that you don't understand, so I think you would not benefit from my elaborating on my previous reply. I see this as a non-effective use of my time, so I decline.

[snb]

That's what puzzled me in your reaction to my question to the OP in the first place.