In a SAS DATA step, which approach correctly reads the 3rd column (columns 15-16) as a 2-character state code from a fixed-width text file?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation and Infographic
Here's the deal — a is correct because the column pointer control @15 moves to column 15 to read a 2-character state code using the $2. informat.
Full explanation below image
Full Explanation
A is correct because the column pointer control @15 moves to column 15 to read a 2-character state code using the $2. informat. B reads sequentially from the current position without positioning to column 15. C uses list-style input without column positioning. D is syntactically incorrect (the column pointer goes before the variable name).