Ray (et. al.) -

As you suggested, I am trying to "clean up" my databases with regard to initial values so that I will not be creating "blank" forms.

Each time I create a new form for addition to my database, I want it assigned a consexutive unique number that satisfies two conditions.

1)  I only need the ID number if data is entered in one or more Layout Elements on the form.

2)  In some cases, I need to see the ID number before I exit the form.

Rarely, if ever, will I enter or click on the ID LE.  

One exception is that, in rare cases, I will manually input a number in the ID LE to enter a "skipped" form number. In these cases, the ID Number would generally be the first entry I make to the form.

Presently I have the following code in my ID field for the Event On Form Entry

if @isnew and ID = "" then id = @number 

If I move the same code to the event On Form Change, will that accomplish what I want?

Also, is there a better way to approach this?

Finally (for now), there are two other points I am confused about.

(1)  If I search for and receive a "set" of six forms, and then advance to a "blank" form and, without having entered any data, then press F9, what will happen to the "blank" form (1) if it does have an initial value in one of the layout elements and (2) if it does NOT have an initial value in one of the LE's?

(2) Assuming that if I press F10 and then, before entering data, press F9, and I have used an initial value in one of the fields, the form will be "saved." If so, is there ever a time when I can use an initial value and not have the form saved under any circumstance, when that is the only field containing a value?

Thanks!

Ray -

In that case, and if I understand the code correctly, a number won't be assigned even if every LE has an entry EXCEPT for the first name field.

I am assuming that "On Form Change" would require me to make an entry into one (or more) of the LE's.  If all I do is "enter" an "exit" a blank form will "on form change" programming come into play even in that instance?

Can you point out what would be wrong with the change I proposed?

Also I am not clear as to why would I need the @isblank(First Name) = 0 ... when I don't need the = 0 for @isblank(ID).

There were several other points, in my original message, that I would appreciate having addressed.

By George, I think I've got it.

The = "" was just old programming before you told me for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th etc. time NOT to use it.  lol

I've only used if not @isblank so the = 0 threw me.  I should have figured it out because I know we were looking to see whether the First Name LE contained data.

So, now I can just concern myself with on form entry progamming and don't have to worry about initial values (for my present need).

Thank you.

27 MORE DAYS!!!