Statistical Analysis System (SAS) Programming Certification Practice Exam 2026 - Free SAS Practice Questions and Study Guide

The outcome of placing the FORMAT statement in a DATA step is that formats are temporarily associated with the specified variables during the execution of that DATA step. When you use the FORMAT statement in this way, it only applies within the context of that specific DATA step and for the dataset that is being created or modified.

This means that the defined formats will not be saved permanently in the dataset itself or affect other datasets. Each time you run the DATA step, the format will need to be specified again for the variables, as it will not persist after the DATA step completes.

The correct understanding is that while formats can enhance the readability and representation of data within a single DATA step, they do not create a permanent association with the variables beyond that point. Any subsequent use of these variables in other DATA steps or procedures would require reapplication of the FORMAT statement to ensure they maintain the desired appearance.