Visual Basic for Applications:
Interpolating a string

How to:

Unlike some languages that have built-in string interpolation, VBA requires a more manual approach typically using the & operator or the Format function for embedding variables into strings. Below are examples showcasing these methods:

Using the & Operator:

Dim userName As String
Dim userScore As Integer

userName = "Alice"
userScore = 95

' Concatenating strings and variables
Dim message As String
message = "Congratulations, " & userName & "! Your score is " & userScore & "."
Debug.Print message

Output:

Congratulations, Alice! Your score is 95.

Using the Format Function:

For more complex scenarios, such as including formatted numbers or dates, the Format function is invaluable.

Dim currentDate As Date
currentDate = Date

Dim formattedMessage As String
formattedMessage = "Today is " & Format(currentDate, "MMMM dd, yyyy") & ". Have a great day!"
Debug.Print formattedMessage

Output:

Today is April 15, 2023. Have a great day!

Deep Dive

String interpolation as known in modern programming languages like Python or JavaScript does not directly exist in VBA. Historically, VBA developers had to rely on concatenation using & or utilize the Format function for inserting values into strings, often making the process cumbersome for complex strings or needing precise formatting. This difference emphasizes VBA’s era of origin and its focus on direct simplicity over some modern conveniences.

However, it’s essential to note that while VBA doesn’t offer built-in string interpolation, the mastery of & for simple concatenations or Format for more complex scenarios allows for robust and flexible string manipulation. For developers coming from languages with native string interpolation features, this might initially seem like a step back, but these methods offer a level of control that, once mastered, can be incredibly powerful. Moreover, moving to more recent .NET environments, programmers will find string interpolation as a first-class feature in VB.NET, providing a more familiar and efficient approach for creating dynamic strings. In practical terms, understanding the differences and limitations in VBA can greatly aid in writing efficient, readable code and easing the transition to more modern Visual Basic environments if needed.