Chapter 4: Functions and CALL Routines

Definitions of Functions and CALL Routines

Definition of Functions

A SAS function performs a computation or system manipulation on arguments and returns a value. Most functions use arguments supplied by the user , but a few obtain their arguments from the operating environment.

In Base SAS software, you can use SAS functions in DATA step programming statements, in a WHERE expression, in macro language statements, in PROC REPORT, and in Structured Query Language (SQL).

Some statistical procedures also use SAS functions. In addition, some other SAS software products offer functions that you can use in the DATA step. Refer to the documentation that pertains to the specific SAS software product for additional information about these functions.

Definition of CALL Routines

A CALL routine alters variable values or performs other system functions. CALL routines are similar to functions, but differ from functions in that you cannot use them in assignment statements.

All SAS CALL routines are invoked with CALL statements; that is, the name of the routine must appear after the keyword CALL on the CALL statement.