Merging two large datasets with SAME variable names

[2Whitty]

Hello,

I am merging two rather large datasets each of which contain 4,000 variables and they both have the same variable names.

Given the large number of variables, I am wondering if there a SAS procedure that would allow me to rename all of the variables in a single dataset at once? Perhaps by adding a simple suffix or prefix?

I Googled around and found some PROC SQL options however, I am simply not familiar  with SQL so the code was not very clear.

I am using SAS version 9. 

Any help or references would be appreciated.

Thank you.

[Reeza]

If they have the same variable names are you sure you want a merge and not an append?

Although it doesn't matter for this question you a SAS version is along the lines of 9.3 or 9.4 not just 9. 

[2Whitty]

OH!!! Yes... well I think I want to Append.
One dataset includes the children and the other include the mothers they
are to be merged(?) using a family ID.
Both groups completed the same questionnaire (hence the same variable
names) however now I am tasked with bringing them both together.
Appending sounds like a reasonable direction. I will Google that
procedure, right now!

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[Kurt_Bremser]

Well, that's quite simple, then.

data family;
set
  mothers
  children
;
run;

proc sort data=family;
by family_id;
run;

[RW9]

4000 variables in multiple datasets, that really does not sound like an efficient or easy way to be working.  Personally I wouldn't work with any dataset having more than 30 odd variables, its just unworkable.  Consider a restructure.

[Ronein]

What does it mean restructure?

[Kurt_Bremser]

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@Ronein wrote:

What does it mean restructure?

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Transpose.