When you save or run a script using Execute or Display, VA Smalltalk compiles the script just before running it. This section lists some of the most common compilation errors.

If you use a variable name that is undefined or misspelled, the compiler inserts the word undefined where the error occurs in your script. The inserted word is highlighted, so you can use the Delete key to remove it from the text. The cursor is then positioned in front of the error, so you can easily correct it.

If you forget to separate statements with periods or semicolons, the compiler tries to use the second statement as a continuation of the first one. Depending on the statements, you might get the text syntax error inserted into the text or the debugger might be activated with a message like: <object> does not understand <message>.

If you get a debugger window, just close the debugger window and correct the error.

Unbalanced brackets or parentheses cause the message syntax error. If you are using keyword messages, be sure to use parentheses when they are needed to group arguments correctly.