requireslocal

**requireslocal** is a keyword in the programming language Lua used to declare a variable as local within a function or block, ensuring it is only accessible within that scope. Introduced in Lua 5.2, it serves as a more explicit alternative to the traditional `local` keyword, providing clearer intent in code where variable scope is critical.

When a variable is declared with `requireslocal`, Lua enforces that the variable must be defined as local within the current function. If the variable is referenced without being declared locally, Lua raises a runtime error. This feature is particularly useful in libraries or modules where strict scoping rules are desired to prevent unintended side effects or naming conflicts.

For example, in a function:

```

function example()

requireslocal x

x = 10

end

```

Here, `x` must be declared as local inside `example()`. Attempting to use `x` without the `local` keyword would result in an error.

Unlike `local`, which silently declares a variable as local if it isn’t already, `requireslocal` enforces the rule at runtime, making debugging easier by catching scope violations early. This keyword is rarely used in everyday Lua programming but can be valuable in specific scenarios, such as writing strict APIs or enforcing coding standards.

The `requireslocal` keyword does not affect global variables or variables declared outside the function. It is purely a scoping enforcement tool and does not alter variable behavior beyond ensuring proper localization. While its usage is optional, it can improve code clarity and reduce subtle bugs related to variable scope.