Introduction to the SQL Procedure

What Is the SQL Procedure?

The SQL procedure is the Base SAS implementation of Structured Query Language. PROC SQL is part of Base SAS software, and you can use it with any SAS data set (table). Often, PROC SQL can be an alternative to other SAS procedures or the DATA step. You can use SAS language elements such as global statements, data set options, functions, informats, and formats with PROC SQL just as you can with other SAS procedures. PROC SQL can

generate reports
generate summary statistics
retrieve data from tables or views
combine data from tables or views
create tables, views, and indexes
update the data values in PROC SQL tables
update and retrieve data from database management system (DBMS) tables
modify a PROC SQL table by adding, modifying, or dropping columns.

PROC SQL can be used in an interactive SAS session or within batch programs, and it can include global statements, such as TITLE and OPTIONS.

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