how to find non-numeric value from a matrix?

Hello,

I'm trying to give a numeric value to a non-numeric values. It seems to be a very simple problem but I just couldn't figure it out. Let's say I want to find the store number according to my t-shirt size.

First I define different sizes.

size = {'large', 'medium', 'small'};

Then, convert this non-numeric value to a numeric value for further use.

tshirt = find (size == 'medium');

This command doesn't work...I was hoping this command will give me back '2' which would be the column numer for 'medium' to give instructions to go store #2.

Is there any way to make this work? I'd appreciate a lot for any help/advices!

Answer 1

[Jonathan Epperl]

To compare strings, you'll need strcmp or strcmpi, depending on whether you want case sensitive or insensitive.

 >> tshirts = {'sm','med','lar'};

 >> nr = find(strcmpi(tshirts,'med'))

 nr = 
      2

Answer 2

[Sean de Wolski]

First and most importantly: don't name a variable size!!!! This is a super useful builtin function that when overwritten can cause disastrous effects.

Second, use strcmp

tsize = {'large', 'medium', 'small'};
find(strcmp(tsize,'medium'))