Input dataset path once in program, recall it many times

[CharlesC]

Hello,

I am trying to code a simple program in which the user inputs the libname then the dataset once and several proc's and data steps are used with this dataset.  I'd like to have the option for the user to block off portions of code to run one proc or one data set independently, so I can't put everything in one giant macro.  How can I have the user input the dataset location just once then have some sort of alias or another way of referring to this dataset multiple times?  Thanks for helping out a newbie!

-Charles

[LinusH]

Macro variable?

[CharlesC]

I'm very new to SAS-- could you give me an example?  Thanks.

[Reeza]

Statistical Computing Seminar: Introduction to SAS Macro Language

Not quite what you're looking for, but a good read to start off with.

[CharlesC]

Thank you very much!  Macros are still unfamiliar territory as we didn't really cover them in Base SAS Programming... I appreciate the help.

[LinusH · Accepted solution]

Sorry, since you mentioned "giant macro" I asumed you were familiar with concept:

%Let myTab = MyLibref.MyLongTableNameIWant2Query;

proc print data=&MyTab.;

run;

[CharlesC]

Thank you very much!