I would avoid using $_ as a temporary variable, even when localised. Not because it will break your code as it is but because the next coder (or even you some time later) who comes along won't be expecting it and could get bitten.

If the var is so transient that $_ is an OK name for it then, as you say, "my $x;" is shorter to type than "local $_;" :) I would still use a more meaningful name though eg. $temp_foo_counter or $partial_interest_calc etc. If it is distinctly named it is much less likely to cause problems later on.

Update:I read the original node as suggesting using $_ as a generic temporary variable and not necessarily to take advantage of Perl's built in use of $_ as the default target. I have used $_ as converter described and didn't mean to suggest you shouldn't use it for that, though I still advocate taking care :)

--
Life is a tale told by an idiot -- full of sound and fury, signifying nothing. William Shakespeare, Macbeth

In reply to Re: Using $_ as a temp var, especially in functions by greenFox
in thread Using $_ as a temp var, especially in functions by BUU

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