Why do the Input > Create Button and Input > Edit Button dialogs not accept my input?

The Input > Create Button and Input > Edit Button dialogs will only accept expressions that are understood by the front end. All other expressions must be put in FullForm. For example, the ButtonFunction field will not accept the following.

This is because the front end does not understand this notation for exponents. Instead, use the following.

The dialog will accept this as a valid expression even though it does not know the definition for Power because the expression is in FullForm. The most notable exception are lists. The front end does is programmed to handle the {...} list notation. If you wish to use the more convenient kernel notations to create your buttons, then you can use kernel commands to create your buttons.

http://support.wolfram.com/mathematica/interface/buttons/fromkernel.html

The kernel will convert the expressions into a form that the front end will accept.

Download this FAQ as a Mathematica 5.2 Notebook

Questions or comments? Send email to support@wolfram.com.