7.2 Performing operations on signatures

7.2.1 Displaying certain signatures

By default, the generic function browser displays the signatures of all methods defined on the generic function. This can often be confusing, when there are many methods, or when the distinction between different classes is not clear.

The Restrict menu command allows you to restrict which signatures are displayed to a chosen signature and its superclasses.

We can now restrict the signatures displayed to a particular class of mammal and its superclasses in the following way.

6. Choose Signature > Restrict.

A dialog box appears.

7. Type sheep into this dialog box.

The display changes so that only three signatures are shown -- sheep and its superclasses. In situations where there are a large number of complicated signatures, this can simplify the description greatly and add to your understanding of the methods defined.

If at any time you wish to change the restriction, simply choose Restrict again and specify a new class.

If you wish to return to the default behavior (display the signatures for all methods defined), choose Signature > Release.


FreeLisp User's Guide - 5 FEB 1996

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