Function and syntax of DATA statement

• Begin the data step
• Name the data set(s) to be built

Data statement DATA dataset-name;

Note: To read these syntax-definitions boxes, use these conventions:

• Typewriter-typeface (Courier) indicates that you use exactly the same spelling and form as shown.
  That is: "DATA" means type exactly that.
• Italics (in proportional typeface) indicates that you supply your own information.
  That is: "dataset-name" means type in a name (that you make up) corresponding to your dataset name.
  Note also that there is a dash between "dataset" and "name". This tells you that-to SAS-this is considered one word. That is, when you make up the dataset name, you use a single word to refer to that dataset.