volatility of variable scope

i confused seems, on surface, huge limitation of variables in actionscript. i'm looking @ following statement documentation on creating variables:

"if variable declared in fla (instead of in external file), works frame variable declared. frame code frame scanned, second frame not recognize variable if referenced."

so means there's no way store value in variable , use later in movie, unless create separate code file? seems ridiculous. let's want type in name @ beginning of movie; can't store value in variable , recall later in movie address person name? can't possibly imagine forced in external files have variable stores longer frame. can set me straight on this?

of course reading documentation! :) if read next sentence says, "initializing variable helps track , compare variable’s value swf file plays." seems contradict sentence have quoted.

so think case of technical writers having important share, serious lack of understanding of english language. have no idea trying tell you, think has importance of declaring variables , change between flash 6 , 7.

in event seem overlooking important point. , ask questions here, have answered far quicker posting here , waiting answer.

make new file.
add keyframe @ frame 2 or 30 or have you.
declare variable on frame 1.
trace variable on whatever next frame added.

what happens?

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