Question

If I define a function in an external file, I have to use source to load it in. So if I’m modifying a function, my process looks like:

1. Make changes in file
2. Source
3. Test changes
4. Back to 1

Is there any way to remove #2? E.g. in Octave it just dynamically searches your path to find the appropriate file every time you call a function.

Answer 1

No,

If you make changes to a function, you’re always going to have to reload it. However, as mentioned by commenters, there are other options when using RStudio, namely:

1. Source on Save, and;
2. fix()

Depending on the complexity of the function, I personally like fix() because it immediately reloads the function and it’s great for making quick adjustments – but the caveat is that you have to remember to save your changes manually.

When I’m troubleshooting, I generally use fix and then copy-paste into my function file.

The devtools package offers a range of simplification and streamlining for package development. Which, while it can also be useful for the purposes of reloading, seems to be outside of the scope of your question.