# CFStringGetPascalString(_:_:_:_:) Copies the character contents of a CFString object to a local Pascal string buffer after converting the characters to a requested encoding. ``` func CFStringGetPascalString(_ theString: CFString!, _ buffer: StringPtr!, _ bufferSize: CFIndex, _ encoding: CFStringEncoding) -> Bool ``` ## Parameters `theString` The string to examine. `buffer` The Pascal string buffer into which to copy the `theString`. The buffer must be at least `bufferSize` bytes in length. On return, contains the converted characters. If there is an error in conversion, the buffer contains only partial results. `bufferSize` The length of the local `buffer` in bytes (accounting for the length byte). `encoding` The string encoding to which the character contents of `theString` should be converted. ## Return Value `true` if the operation succeeds or `false` if the conversion fails or the provided buffer is too small. ## Discussion This function is useful when you need your own copy of a CFString object’s character data as a Pascal string. You can also call it as a “backup” operation when a prior call to the [`CFStringGetPascalStringPtr(_:_:)`](/documentation/CoreFoundation/CFStringGetPascalStringPtr(_:_:)) function fails. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)