topic Re: Macro variable and DATA step in SAS Procedures

Macro variable and DATA step

ren2010 — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 05:28:55 GMT

Hi All.

I am trying to introduce a new macro variable in a data step and use that variable with in the same data step,is that possible?
I know that CALL SYMPUT will not work to acheive what I am trying to do.
If you have any suggestions,please let me know.

Thanks in advance.

Re: Macro variable and DATA step

dhana — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 07:29:15 GMT

No. you cant create and use a macro variable with in the same data step.

Re: Macro variable and DATA step

dhana — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 07:34:49 GMT

The SYMPUT routine assigns the value of the macro variable during DATA step execution, but the macro variable references resolve during the compilation of a step or global statement. So you can’t retrieve the macro variable’s value in the same DATA step in which the SYMPUT routine assigns that value.

Re: Macro variable and DATA step

RickM — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 13:12:29 GMT

Instead of a macro variable you could use a retain statement to keep a value of a variable across iterations of the data step.

Re: Macro variable and DATA step

ArtC — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 17:10:55 GMT

While it actually is technically possible to create and then use a macro variable within the same DATA step, it is rarely the right solution. We would need to see more of the problem to address the design issues.