RECNO() returns the absolute position of a record within a dataset, regardless of any sorting or filtering applied. This function is useful for tracking record positions, creating sequential numbering, and maintaining record order in operations.
Function Format
RECNO()
Return Value
RECNO() returns a numeric value
Examples
RECNO() = 1 (first record in the set)
RECNO() = 25 (25th record in the set)
RECNO() = 100 (100th record in the set)
RECNO() = 1 (first record, even after sorting)
RECNO() = 25 (25th record, even after filtering)
Notes
Important behaviors:
Returns the absolute position in the dataset
No parameters required
Position is independent of sorting
Position is independent of filtering
Starts counting from 1
Not available on directly connected external tables
Common use cases include:
Record tracking
Sequential numbering
Position-based operations
Data validation
Record ordering
The function can be used in:
Record identification
Position tracking
Order maintenance
Data processing
This function is often used in combination with other functions for record management and data processing.
For relative positions or positions after sorting, consider using ROW_NUMBER() or other window functions.
