Function Libraries
Introduction
Includes are a fundamental feature in AVAP™ that allow for the efficient organization and reuse of code in software development projects. Just like in other programming languages, includes in AVAP™ enable the incorporation of functionalities from other files or libraries into the current file. This capability provides a number of significant advantages that make the development and maintenance of projects more efficient and effective.

Purpose of Includes
The primary purpose of includes in AVAP™ is to promote modularity and code reuse. By dividing code into separate modules or files and then including them in main files as needed, developers can write and maintain code in a more organized and structured manner. This facilitates the management of large and complex projects, as well as collaboration between development teams.

Advantages of Using Includes
Code Reuse: Includes allow for the reuse of functions, variables, and other code definitions in multiple parts of a project, reducing code duplication and promoting consistency and coherence in development.
Facilitates Maintainability: By dividing code into smaller, more specific modules, it is easier to identify, understand, and modify parts of the code without affecting other parts of the project. This eases software maintenance over time.
Promotes Modularity: The ability to include files selectively as needed encourages code modularity, which simplifies understanding and managing complex projects by breaking them down into smaller, manageable components.
Improves Readability and Organization: The use of includes helps organize code in a logical and structured manner, improving readability and facilitating navigation through different parts of the project.
Syntax of Includes
In AVAP™, the syntax for including a file is similar to that of other languages like C. The keyword include is used followed by the name of the file to be included. There are two main ways to include files in AVAP™:

Local Include: Used to include project-specific files located in the same directory or in subdirectories relative to the current file. The file name is specified within quotes. Example:
include "file_name.avap"
System Include: Used to include standard or system library files located in predefined or configured paths on the system. The file or library name is specified between angle brackets (< and >). Example:
include <library_name.avap>
Operation
When an include is found in an AVAP™ file, the interpreter searches for the specified file and incorporates it into the current file at compile time. This means that all the code contained in the included file will be available for use in the current file.

Common Uses
Including Standard Libraries: Standard libraries that provide common functions and utilities can be included to simplify application development.
Including Definition Files: Files containing definitions of variables, constants, or data structures used in multiple parts of the project can be included.
Including Specific Functionality Modules: Modules providing additional features for the project, such as file handling, text processing, or data manipulation, can be included.
Practical Example
Suppose we have a file named utils.avap that contains utility functions we want to use in our main project. We can include this file in our main project as follows:

include "utils.avap" // We can now use the functions defined in utils.avap
With this understanding of the value and advantages of using includes in AVAP™, we will explore in detail their operation and practical application in project development.

Practical Example
Suppose we have a file named utils.avap that contains utility functions we want to use in our main project. We can include this file in our main project as follows:

include "utils.avap" // We can now use the functions defined in utils.avap
With this understanding of the value and advantages of using includes in AVAP™, we will explore in detail their operation and practical application in project development.

Function Libraries Function Products
In AVAP™, there are a series of function libraries grouped by categories called Function Products that complement the base AVAP™ language and leverage the power of AVS servers for distribution. Through Function Products, developers can extend the functionality of AVAP™ by incorporating specialized libraries tailored to different needs and applications.

Function Products provide a way to access advanced features and capabilities not available in the core language, offering a robust framework for building complex and scalable solutions. These libraries are designed to integrate seamlessly with AVAP™, enhancing the development process and enabling more efficient and effective project execution.