Rational Developer for System z

Using content assist

COBOL and PL/I content assist is available for syntax elements of each language and for CICS® variables and EXEC SQL statements. For example, built-in functions and subroutine calls for the PL/I language are available as completion proposals, with the correct syntax. Where possible, user-defined labels and variables are included in the list of suggested options.

About this task

In addition to content assist for COBOL code, the System z® LPEX Editor and the COBOL Editor provide content assist for CICS and SQL variables that are in EXEC CICS and EXEC SQL blocks. The editors display variable names and their declarations. Hovering over the data item entries shows the data structure of the item.

To use content assist, open a COBOL or PL/I file in the System z LPEX Editor, COBOL Editor, or PL/I Editor. As you are typing the code, press Ctrl+Spacebar and select from among the options displayed to complete the code you are typing.

You can toggle the content assist window between the default pane and template pane by pressing Ctrl+Spacebar again. If you close the content assist window and open it again without changing the cursor location, it reopens on the same pane. For more information about templates, see the related topics.

Content assist can not provide any proposals for a syntax error until there is enough valid syntax to suggest options.

Limitation: In the System z LPEX Editor, opening and closing the content assist window without changing the cursor location toggles the window content.

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