In the COBOL Procedure Division, which statement is used for making decisions and implementing conditional logic?
- ACCEPT statement
- EVALUATE statement
- IF statement
- PERFORM statement
The EVALUATE statement in COBOL is used for making decisions and implementing conditional logic. It allows for multiple conditions to be tested, and corresponding actions to be taken based on the true condition.
In indexed file processing, the use of ____________ keys can enhance the performance of record retrieval operations.
- Alternate
- Composite
- Primary
- Secondary
In indexed file processing, secondary keys are additional keys created to enhance the performance of record retrieval operations. These keys provide alternative paths for accessing records, reducing the time and resources required for searching and retrieving specific data.
COBOL provides the _____ clause to specify the data type of elements within a table.
- DATA
- INDEX
- OCCURS
- PIC
COBOL uses the PIC (Picture) clause to specify the data type of elements within a table. It allows you to define the characteristics of the data, such as its format, size, and type.
Explain the concept of deadlock in the context of file locking in COBOL. How can it be avoided or resolved?
- Deadlock occurs when two or more processes are blocked, each waiting for the other to release a lock. To avoid deadlock, use a consistent order when acquiring locks or implement timeout mechanisms. Resolution involves detecting deadlock and releasing locks in a controlled manner.
- Option 2
- Option 3
- Option 4
Deadlock in COBOL file locking happens when processes are blocked, waiting for each other's locks. Avoiding deadlock involves careful lock acquisition order and implementing timeouts. Resolution includes detecting deadlock and releasing locks systematically.
How can you terminate a PERFORM loop in COBOL using the EVALUATE statement?
- By using the BREAK statement
- By using the EXIT PERFORM statement
- By using the WHEN OTHER condition
- By using the WHEN condition with a specific value
The EVALUATE statement in COBOL can be used to terminate a PERFORM loop by incorporating the EXIT PERFORM statement within one of the WHEN conditions. This allows the program to exit the loop based on a specified condition.
When using the OPEN verb in COBOL, what is the primary purpose of specifying the ACCESS MODE clause?
- To allocate storage space for the file
- To define the file's record length
- To define the type of access allowed for the file (SEQUENTIAL or RANDOM)
- To specify the file organization (SEQUENTIAL or INDEXED)
The ACCESS MODE clause in the OPEN verb is used to specify the type of access allowed for the file. It determines whether the file will be accessed sequentially or randomly.
Which COBOL file control verb is used to write records to an open file?
- CLOSE
- OPEN
- READ
- WRITE
In COBOL, the WRITE verb is used to add records to an open file. It allows the program to insert data into the file, either at the end or at a specified position.
When using the OCCURS clause, the DEPENDING ON phrase specifies the number of times the data item ____________.
- Can be repeated
- Is referenced by another variable
- Occurs
- Should be moved to a different table
When using the OCCURS clause in COBOL, the DEPENDING ON phrase specifies the number of times the data item can be repeated. It allows for dynamic array sizing based on the value of another variable.
Date validation is crucial to ensure that dates in COBOL programs are _____ and _____.
- Accurate and Consistent
- Alphanumeric and Numeric
- Unique and Distinct
- Valid and Within Range
Date validation in COBOL is essential to ensure that dates are valid and within the expected range. This helps prevent errors and ensures the reliability of date-related operations in programs.
What is the purpose of the INITIALIZE verb in COBOL?
- To declare variables in COBOL
- To initialize variables with random values
- To set all data items to their default values
- To terminate the COBOL program
The INITIALIZE verb in COBOL is used to set all data items to their default values. It is commonly used at the beginning of a program to initialize variables and data structures before processing begins.