parametric quotes

 From:  TpwUK
5770.7 
I am confused by this thread, if i pick a point to start a line and then type say "20" without quotes, then the line is confined to that length, if I the use a snap to say end or mid point etc, then click on the little d under the co-ordinations display, i can type the distance i want, and the line is again constrained - is this not the same ?

Martin Spencer-Ford