Variable and Constraint Declaration
Terminology
The word variable does not have a uniform meaning. In general, programmers view a variable as a known but varying quantity that receives its value through direct assignments. However, in the context of constraints in AIMMS, the word variable denotes an unknown quantity. Constraints can be grouped together to form a system of simultaneous equations and/or inequalities, which is referred to as a mathematical program. Variables in a mathematical program are assigned values when a solver (a solution algorithm) finds a solution for the unknowns in the system.
Similarity of parameters and variables
When used outside the scope of constraints and the solution of mathematical programs, variables in AIMMS behave essentially the same as parameters in AIMMS. Like parameters, variables can be initialized, used as known quantities in assignment statements, and be referred to as data from within the graphical user interface.