>I have been told that any variable in a program (*.prg file) is
>private unless declared as public. Is this true? Variables I make
>are always declared as private and if the above statement is true
>it would save some work making sure every variable is accounted for
>and is private. I am working inside someone elses application writing
>reports and I want to be sure.

A variable inside a program will be seen under this hierarchy.

A variable inside a method or event will only be seen in the actual method or event.

But, if you declare it public, it will be seen in the entire application.