Lecture Notes: SAS Software and Data Management

Introduction to SAS Software

• SAS 4.9.4 desktop software available for Windows users at can.edu.
• Free for KSU users; requires login and download.
• Software download: 11 GB zip file; extract and run setup for installation.
• Orientation lecture available online for further guidance.

Alternative Options for Mac Users

• VM Fusion:

  • Free for personal use; allows installation of Windows software on Mac.
  • Two versions: Fusion Pro and Workstation available; choose based on Mac's hardware (Intel vs. Apple Silicon).
  • Installation involves downloading Windows from Microsoft and setting up VM tools.

• SAS Studio (Online Version):

  • Accessible to KSU users; suitable for basic class needs but not advanced level.
  • Syntax is similar to desktop SAS software.

SAS Environment and Setup

• Creating a Library in SAS:

  • Use libname keyword to create a permanent library.
  • Example: libname clinic 'path-to-folder';
  • Store path to a directory in your system where SAS datasets will be kept.

• Data Portability:

  • Copy datasets between libraries using data and set statements.
  • Example: data clinic.new_dataset; set clinic.existing_dataset; run;

Coding in SAS

• Basic Syntax:

  • Every statement ends with a semicolon ;.
  • Comments can be added using * comment text; or /* comment text */.

• Data Components:

  • SAS datasets consist of descriptor (metadata) and data portions (actual data).
  • Variables can be numeric or character; missing numeric values are denoted by a . and character by a blank.

Practical SAS Functions

• Printing and Summarizing Data:

  • proc print data=library.dataset; run; prints data.
  • proc contents data=library.dataset; run; prints metadata.

• Creating New Variables:

  • Use expressions to create new columns.
  • Example: data new_dataset; set old_dataset; new_var = old_var / 2; run;

Importing and Exporting Data

• Importing Excel Data: Proc Import

  • Use proc import to load Excel files into SAS datasets.
  • Example: proc import datafile='path' out=library.dataset dbms=xlsx replace; sheet='Sheet1'; run;

• Exporting to Excel or CSV: Proc Export

  • Use proc export to save datasets to Excel or CSV.
  • Example for CSV: proc export data=library.dataset outfile='path' dbms=csv replace; run;

Advanced Features and Tips

• VM Tools for Mac Users:
  • Install additional VM tools for better performance.
  • Necessary for installing SAS on a virtual Windows environment.

Conclusion

• Practice coding regularly; document code with comments for future reference.
• Engage with provided resources and reach out for support if needed.
• Use the class time efficiently to explore SAS functionalities and understand the environment.