MATLAB: How to use the value of a variable as a variable

stringsvariables

I will try to describe this the best I can. I have a variable A and its value is a string, lets say BC.
A = BC;
The value of A (BC in this case) is determined within a loop and changes. However, I want string BC to be turned into a variable where I can save more information. Specifically I want BC to be turned into a matrix that I can use later on.
Anyone have any tips on how I can do this?
Thank you for your time.

Best Answer

You could use a structure and define fields indirectly using the current value of "A":
>> A = 'BC'
A =
BC
>> s.(A) = randn(3,3)
s = 
      BC: [3x3 double]
>> A = 'CD'
A =
CD
>> s.(A) = randn(4,4)
s = 
      BC: [3x3 double]
      CD: [4x4 double]
You can access the fields using the dynamically defined names:
>> s.BC
ans =
      1.4090   -1.2075    0.4889
      1.4172    0.7172    1.0347
      0.6715    1.6302    0.7269
>> s.CD
ans =
     -0.3034   -1.1471    1.4384   -1.7115
      0.2939   -1.0689    0.3252   -0.1022
     -0.7873   -0.8095   -0.7549   -0.2414
      0.8884   -2.9443    1.3703    0.3192
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