Turn Character to numaric

[hhchenfx]

Hello,

I know it is not new but I am so curious how SAS handle the following problem

I try different way and I find that it work when I create new variable to replace the old one.

Can anyone help me to explain why some methods (documented below works) while some don't?

Is there any way where I can simply tell SAS to change the format?

Thank you.

HC

data have;
input total $7.;
datalines;
12.51
12309.51
;run;

data want; set have;
*no work;
total=total+0;	
total=input(total,best12.);
total=input(total,COMMA8.2);

*works;
total_num1=total+0;
total_num2=input(total,best12.);
total_num3=input(total,8.2);
total_num4=input(total,COMMA12.);
total_num5=input(total,COMMA8.2);

run;

[Reeza]

What is your HAVE data set?

[Reeza · Accepted solution]

A SAS variable type cannot change, ie character to numeric with the same name is not possible.

You can create a new variable with a numeric format, ergo the last examples work. You can mimic what you want by renaming the variable on your SET statement or providing a new name.

[hhchenfx]

oh,

here it is.

HC

data have;
input total $7.;
datalines;
12.51
12309.51
;run;