FORMATS

[robertrao]

Hi Team,

When I write a format sometimes i might want to write for 25-30 variables. It might sometimes take 2 pages of the editor window. Is there any way to reduce it????

Like we do for the code by putting in a macro??

Thanks

[ballardw]

Using a dataset using the CNTLIN.

Variables are the lenth issue but the number of formats and values or value ranges. If the values/ranges and display are the same then one format does for multiple variables. Otherwise an example of what you think might be reduced is a good idea.

I have some code files that only create formats that run over 2000 lines due to the number value ranges involved.

You can make permanent format catalogs by specifying the library option in proc format and then use the system option FMTSEARCH to tell SAS what order to search for saved formats.

[art297]

Can you provide a brief example of what you want to reduce?

[ballardw · Accepted solution]

Save the formats in a separate file and %include the file OR build a permanent format catalog.

[robertrao]

Great Help.

Thanks