The formatted value for a character group variable might be ignored when you create a graph using one of the ODS Graphics procedures.

The problem is most likely to occur when a character format is applied when using the LOESS, PBSPLINE, or REG statement with PROC SGPANEL or PROC SGPLOT. The problem can also occur when using the LOESSPLOT, PBSPLINEPLOT, or REGRESSIONPLOT statement in the Graph Template Language (GTL).

The problem occurs when the length of the group variable is shorter than the length of the longest formatted value.

To circumvent the problem, define a new group variable whose length is as long as the longest formatted value. See the sample code on the Full Code tab for an example.

Operating System and Release Information

proc format;
   value $ myfmt
    'F'='Female'
    'M'='Male';
run;

data class;
   set sashelp.class;
   /* The longest length of the formatted value is 6 */
   length sex2 $6;
   sex2=sex;
run;

proc sgplot data=class;
   reg x=age y=height / group=sex2;
   format sex2 $myfmt.;
   keylegend / title='Class Gender';
run;