When you increment a the value for a key which doesn't exist, the key springs into existence.

Didn't know that. Thanks for the info.

However, I'd like to point out one thing. Back when I was first learning Perl, your one line for loop code would have had me thoroughly confused. Based on the original question asked by the OP, I was left with the impression that the OP was a bit of a beginner. In that case, my foreach loop would probably be somewhat easier to follow along and understand.

Plus, I personally find that my foreach loop more closely matches how I would think through the task, which in turn would mean easier code for me to personally maintain. Just a personal preference.

Anyways, thanks for the tip!

Yes, it's easier to understand the way you presented it. The one line syntax (statement modifier form) is fairly common in Perl though, and it's great if beginners can pick it up. @OP: This syntax can be used with both loops and conditions. E.g:

if($cond){
    doSomething();
}
[download]

can be replaced by:

doSomething() if $cond;
[download]

The only catch is that you can execute only one statement per iteration/condition with this syntax. Happy coding!

The only catch is that you can execute only one statement per iteration/condition with this syntax.

That's where do blocks come in handy :-)

knoppix@Microknoppix:~$ perl -E '
> $sayIt = 1;
> do {
>    say q{Hello};
>    say q{World};
>    } if $sayIt;'
Hello
World
knoppix@Microknoppix:~$
[download]

I hope this is of interest.

Cheers,

JohnGG