Hi
In processing a data step, is there a way to indicate the first record in an overall data set? I know using 'first' works to indicate the first grouping of a certain combination of variables, but I am wondering about the entire data set.
Paul
The predefined variable _n_ will have the value 1 for the first record in a data set
The predefined variable _n_ will have the value 1 for the first record in a data set
Thanks Paige.
Paul
If your datastep involves reading a single dataset then testing _N_=1 will signal the first datastep iteration. Otherwise, using the INDSNAME=myVariable option in the SET statement will give you a dataset name to compare with the previous iteration (IF myVariable ne lag(myVariable)) to detect the fiirst observation from each new dataset, including the first one.
PG
Thanks PG. I have one data set, but that is good to know for the future.
Paul
Don't miss out on SAS Innovate - Register now for the FREE Livestream!
Can't make it to Vegas? No problem! Watch our general sessions LIVE or on-demand starting April 17th. Hear from SAS execs, best-selling author Adam Grant, Hot Ones host Sean Evans, top tech journalist Kara Swisher, AI expert Cassie Kozyrkov, and the mind-blowing dance crew iLuminate! Plus, get access to over 20 breakout sessions.
Learn how use the CAT functions in SAS to join values from multiple variables into a single value.
Find more tutorials on the SAS Users YouTube channel.