Writing a script that mirrors the abs function? I'm doing something wrong but not sure what

Here is the question:

The abs function finds the absolute value of a number or numbers in a matrix.

Using only relational operators and no built-in MATLAB functions, write a script

that recreates the abs function.

Here is what I did:

prompt='Enter a number';
x=input(x) 
if x>0
    disp(x)
elseif x<0
    disp(x*(-1))
end

Help? Please?

[the cyclist]

In the future, it's best to include the complete error message that you are seeing. Also, I used the CODE icon to format your code.

Answer 1

[the cyclist]

I think you meant

x=input(prompt)

[the cyclist]

Trisha wrote the following as an "answer". I moved it here as a comment on my answer.

======================

prompt='Enter a number';

x=input(prompt)

if x>0

disp(x)

elseif x<0

disp(x*(-1))

end

When I enter this, the script doesn't run past the first line. All I get is Enter a Number. How do I fix it?

[the cyclist]

I assumed that since you used the input function, you knew what it did.

The command window is waiting for you to input a number, which will then be stored as x in your program. Just type in your number, and hit Enter.

[Trisha Katz]

Do I set the number equal to x?

[the cyclist]

I suggest you read the documentation for the input function, to understand what it does.