Difference between DATA Step and PROC Step in SAS

When working with SAS, it's important to understand the difference between the DATA step and PROC step:

DATA Step:

The DATA step is used to read, manipulate, and/or create datasets in SAS. It is used to perform data management tasks such as reading input data, creating new variables, sorting data, and merging datasets. The DATA step begins with the keyword "DATA" followed by the name of the output dataset, and ends with a "RUN" statement.

PROC Step:

The PROC step is used to perform analysis, reporting, and data processing tasks on datasets that have already been created or manipulated using the DATA step. PROC steps are used to generate statistical summaries, reports, and graphical outputs. The PROC step begins with the keyword "PROC" followed by the name of the procedure (e.g., PROC MEANS, PROC FREQ), and ends with a "RUN;" statement.

Overall, the DATA step is used for data manipulation and creation while the PROC step is used for data analysis and reporting in SAS.