VBA - Why do I get a compile error expected function or variable

Question

I am curious to understand why the following throws and compile error stating it is expecting a function or variable

Dim frm as Form
set frm = DoCmd.OpenForm(FormName:=mstr_FORM_NAME, View:=acDesign, WindowMode:=acHidden)

but I can do this

DoCmd.OpenForm FormName:=mstr_FORM_NAME, View:=acDesign, WindowMode:=acHidden
set frm=Forms(mstr_FORM_NAME)

I have no issue with doing what works, I just want to understand what is going on with the former statement.

Thank you, Fred

possible duplicate of Compile Error: Expected function or variable in VBA for access — Ken White
– Ken White, Commented May 12, 2015 at 17:03
Ken, I read the referenced post before I posted here but the post did not seem to address answer my question or confusion. — acr_scout
– acr_scout, Commented May 12, 2015 at 17:33

Peter Schneider · Accepted Answer · 2015-05-12 17:03:43Z

2

DoCmd.OpenForm is a method which doesn't return a value. In the second code snippet you are accessing the Forms Collection, which contains the form, after it has been opened by DoCmd.OpenForm. When you call a method, you must not specify braces.

answered May 12, 2015 at 17:03

Peter Schneider

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1 Comment

acr_scout Over a year ago

Well that makes perfect sense. I guess I just didn't understand well enough the idea of a method not returning a value. Thanks Peter.

Matteo NNZ · Accepted Answer · 2015-05-12 17:03:09Z

2

The OpenForm method (doc) is not returning anything, just opening the form (not returning it).

So, you're trying to cast Nothing into a variable defined As Form. Instead, frm (having the Set frm = statement) is expecting to "become something", it is expecting a function or variable - a value, to be clear).

answered May 12, 2015 at 17:03

Matteo NNZ

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