BookmarkSubscribeRSS Feed
fred777
Calcite | Level 5

blah is a character variable mostly populated with numbers in dataset fred.

 

if I do this ...

   data fred2;

      set fred;

      if sum(blah) ^= .;

   run;

 

... SAS will give me just those records which don't have just numbers in blah.

However, if I try something like this ...

   proc tabulate data=fred;

      where sum(blah) ^=.;
      .

      .

      .

   run;

... SAS complains with the error:
ERROR: Function SUM requires a numeric expression as argument 1.

Is there any way I can avoid that additional data step above and still filter on sum(blah) ^=. directly in the PROC?

1 REPLY 1
Kurt_Bremser
Super User

The DATA step code is actually compiled, and not just run from a precompiled module as in PROC steps.

Therefore the SAS datastep compiler can recognize variable type inconsistencies and compile a typecast into the code. This is what causes the NOTE: messages about type conversion in the log.

This is, of course, not possible for dataset options (the where condition in the PROC is working like a dataset option) that don't have the luxury of compilation.

So you won't get around the character-to-numeric conversion, be it explicit or implicit.

SAS INNOVATE 2024

Innovate_SAS_Blue.png

Registration is open! SAS is returning to Vegas for an AI and analytics experience like no other! Whether you're an executive, manager, end user or SAS partner, SAS Innovate is designed for everyone on your team. Register for just $495 by 12/31/2023.

If you are interested in speaking, there is still time to submit a session idea. More details are posted on the website. 

Register now!

What is Bayesian Analysis?

Learn the difference between classical and Bayesian statistical approaches and see a few PROC examples to perform Bayesian analysis in this video.

Find more tutorials on the SAS Users YouTube channel.

Get the $99 certification deal.jpg

 

 

Back in the Classroom!

Select SAS Training centers are offering in-person courses. View upcoming courses for:

View all other training opportunities.

Discussion stats
  • 1 reply
  • 710 views
  • 2 likes
  • 2 in conversation