Working with numbers and arithmetic
In general, you can view COBOL numeric data as a series of decimal digit
positions. However, numeric items can also have special properties such as an
arithmetic sign or a currency sign.
To define, display, and store numeric data so that you can perform arithmetic
operations efficiently:
- Use the PICTURE clause and the characters 9, +,
-, P, S, and V to define numeric data.
- Use the PICTURE clause and editing characters (such as Z,
comma, and period) along with MOVE and DISPLAY statements
to display numeric data.
- Use the USAGE clause with various formats to control how numeric
data is stored.
- Use the numeric class test to validate that data values are appropriate.
- Use ADD, SUBTRACT, MULTIPLY, DIVIDE,
and COMPUTE statements to perform arithmetic.
- Use the CURRENCY SIGN clause and appropriate PICTURE
characters to designate the currency you want.
related tasks
Defining numeric data
Displaying numeric data
Controlling how numeric data is stored
Checking for incompatible data (numeric class test)
Performing arithmetic
Using currency signs
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