objectscript-list-patterns

Build, iterate, and convert ObjectScript lists with $LISTBUILD and $LISTNEXT.

27|10|Updated Apr 21, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/intersystems-community/iris-dev --skill objectscript-list-patterns
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: objectscript-list-patterns
Source: https://github.com/intersystems-community/iris-dev/tree/main/light-skills/skills/objectscript-list-patterns
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/intersystems-community/iris-dev --skill objectscript-list-patterns

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

ObjectScript list manipulation is verbose and error-prone. This Skill provides ready-made patterns to build, iterate, deduplicate, convert, and manage lists efficiently.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Build and accumulate lists using %ListOfDataTypes and $LISTBUILD, with final conversion to strings via $LISTTOSTRING.
  • Iterate safely over lists using $LISTNEXT and the 1-based %List API, enabling robust processing even for empty lists.
  • Deduplicate values using a local hash-like array pattern to achieve linear-time performance.
  • Convert between raw lists and object wrappers and demonstrate common workflows such as CSV creation and element extraction.
  • Use case: normalize a dataset by merging two lists with unique items and exporting to a delimited string for reporting.

Quick Start

Instruct the AI to build a sample list, deduplicate it, and output a comma-delimited string using the provided patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions about objectscript-list-patterns

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I iterate over an ObjectScript list safely without errors on empty inputs?▼

You can convert an ObjectScript list to a delimited string using the $LISTTOSTRING function. This allows you to easily generate CSV outputs or export list data for reporting purposes.

What is the best way to deduplicate values in an ObjectScript list efficiently?▼

The best way to deduplicate ObjectScript list values is by using a local hash-like array pattern. This approach achieves linear-time performance, making it highly efficient for unique item extraction.

How do I convert between raw %List and %ListOfDataTypes in ObjectScript?▼

You can convert between raw %List and %ListOfDataTypes in ObjectScript using $LISTBUILD to create lists and object wrappers for management. This facilitates common workflows like element extraction and list accumulation.

Can I merge two ObjectScript lists and export the unique items to a delimited string?▼

Yes, you can merge two ObjectScript lists by accumulating items with %ListOfDataTypes, applying a local array pattern for deduplication, and converting the final result to a delimited string via $LISTTOSTRING.

Why does my ObjectScript list manipulation fail when building lists across classes and routines?▼

ObjectScript list manipulation fails across classes and routines because the process is verbose and error-prone without consistent patterns. Applying standard $LISTBUILD and $LISTNEXT guidelines ensures safe list accumulation and removal.