Getting Started with the SAS System Using SAS/ASSIST Software

Tables and Files

Why doesn't the table that I want to use appear in the Select Table window?
You probably did not assign a libref to the data library that you want to use. The Select table window displays any tables that are known to the SAS System. The SAS System knows about tables through its use of librefs. See Setting Up SAS Files for instructions on assigning librefs. Refer to the SAS documentation for your operating environment for specific information about using librefs.

Can I type in the table name next to the Table item instead of using the Select Table window?
Because SAS/ASSIST software is designed to minimize user errors, selection lists are implemented in place of keyboard entry fields wherever possible. This is why the Select table window is always used to select active tables. However, the Select table window gives you the option of either typing in the table name or using the selection list. The advantage of having both options is that the selection list lets you know immediately if the table you want to use is associated with a libref and is available.

How do I know when to use a filename and when to use a libname in SAS/ASSIST software?
Using filenames and libnames in SAS/ASSIST software is the same as using them anywhere else in the SAS System: you use a filename to refer to an external file and a libname to refer to a SAS data library. Refer to Setting Up SAS Files or the SAS documentation for your operating environment.

Can I create SAS tables using SAS/ASSIST software?
Yes, you can create SAS tables and enter new data in a SAS table using the Create data or Import data... items on the Data Management menu. Refer to Entering Data Interactively for further instructions.

Can I enter data into an existing table using SAS/ASSIST software?
Yes, you can use the Edit/Browse item on the Data Management menu to enter data into an existing table. Refer to Editing and Browsing Data for further instructions.

Can I subset my data using SAS/ASSIST software?
Yes, many SAS/ASSIST task windows have a Subset data item to allow you to subset your data. Refer to Subsetting the Data.

Can I sort my data using SAS/ASSIST software?
Yes, you can use the Sort... item in the Data Management menu to sort your data. Refer to Sorting Data for instructions on sorting your data.

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