indexing - How can I index a MATLAB array returned by a function without first assigning it to a local variable? -

for example, if want read middle value magic(5), can this:

m = magic(5); value = m(3,3); 

to value == 13. i'd able 1 of these:

value = magic(5)(3,3); value = (magic(5))(3,3); 

to dispense intermediate variable. however, matlab complains unbalanced or unexpected parenthesis or bracket on first parenthesis before 3.

is possible read values array/matrix without first assigning variable?

it is possible want, if use functional form of indexing operator. when perform indexing operation using (), making call subsref function. so, though can't this:

value = magic(5)(3,3); 

you can this:

value = subsref(magic(5),struct('type','()','subs',{{3,3}})); 

ugly, possible, ;)

in general, have change indexing step function call don't have 2 sets of parentheses following 1 another. way define own anonymous function subscripted indexing:

subindex = @(a,r,c) a(r,c);      %# anonymous function index matrix value = subindex(magic(5),3,3);  %# use function index matrix 

however, when said , done temporary local variable solution much more readable, , suggest.