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Which command is used to clear a command window in MATLAB?

Published in MATLAB Command Window 2 mins read

The command used to clear the command window in MATLAB is clc.

The clc command is a fundamental utility in MATLAB that helps maintain a clean and organized workspace during coding and execution.

Understanding the clc Command

Based on the provided reference, the primary function of the clc command is straightforward:

  • clc clears all the text from the Command Window, resulting in a clear screen.

This means that any previous commands, output, or error messages displayed in the Command Window are removed, providing a fresh, blank interface for subsequent work.

How to Use clc

Using clc is very simple. You just type it directly into the MATLAB Command Window and press Enter.

Example:

  1. Open MATLAB.
  2. Type some commands (e.g., a = 5;, disp('Hello World!');, 10 + 20).
  3. Observe the output in the Command Window.
  4. Type clc and press Enter.
  5. The Command Window will become blank.

Practical Insights

  • Improved Readability: Clearing the window with clc makes it easier to see the output of the next command you run, especially when dealing with lengthy scripts or iterative processes.
  • Debugging: When debugging, clearing the window before running a section of code can help you focus on the specific output or errors generated by that section.
  • Scripts: You can include clc at the beginning of a MATLAB script (.m file) to ensure that the Command Window is cleared every time the script is run. This provides a consistent starting point for the output.

Comparison: clc vs. clear

It's important not to confuse clc with the clear command.

Command Purpose Affects
clc Clears the text from the Command Window. Command Window Display
clear Removes variables from the workspace memory. Workspace Variables

Using clc only affects the display in the Command Window; it does not remove variables from the MATLAB workspace. The clear command is used for managing variables in memory.

In Summary

The essential command for tidying up your MATLAB Command Window is clc. It provides a clean slate, enhancing focus and organization while working.

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