[asp.net] what is the use of Eval() in asp.net

What is the use of Eval() in ASP.NET?

IrishChieftain didn't really address the question, so here's my take:

eval() is supposed to be used for data that is not known at run time. Whether that be user input (dangerous) or other sources.

While binding a databound control, you can evaluate a field of the row in your data source with eval() function.

For example you can add a column to your gridview like that :

<asp:BoundField DataField="YourFieldName" />

And alternatively, this is the way with eval :

<asp:TemplateField>
<ItemTemplate>
        <asp:Label ID="lbl" runat="server" Text='<%# Eval("YourFieldName") %>'>
        </asp:Label>
</ItemTemplate>
</asp:TemplateField>

It seems a little bit complex, but it's flexible, because you can set any property of the control with the eval() function :

<asp:TemplateField>
    <ItemTemplate>
        <asp:HyperLink ID="HyperLink1" runat="server" 
          NavigateUrl='<%# "ShowDetails.aspx?id="+Eval("Id") %>' 
          Text='<%# Eval("Text", "{0}") %>'></asp:HyperLink>
    </ItemTemplate>
</asp:TemplateField>