In a multi-user environment, two COBOL programs need to access the same file for reading and writing simultaneously. Which file access mode should you select to ensure data consistency?
- DYNAMIC
- I-O
- INPUT
- OUTPUT
In a multi-user environment, the appropriate file access mode is I-O (Input-Output). This mode supports concurrent reading and writing operations, ensuring data consistency when multiple programs access the same file simultaneously.
What does the "CONFIGURATION SECTION" contain in the "ENVIRONMENT DIVISION" of a COBOL program?
- Configuration details for external files and devices
- Procedure details for program logic
- System settings for program execution
- Variable declarations for program data
The "CONFIGURATION SECTION" in the "ENVIRONMENT DIVISION" of a COBOL program contains configuration details for external files and devices, specifying their organization, access modes, and other relevant attributes.
To make a variable accessible across different programs in COBOL, you can use the _____ clause.
- EXPORT
- EXTERNAL
- GLOBAL-STORAGE
- LINKAGE
To make a variable accessible across different programs in COBOL, you can use the EXTERNAL clause. This allows variables to be shared between programs, enabling data interchange between them.
What are some advantages of using relative file processing over sequential file processing in COBOL?
- Dynamic sorting of records, automatic key generation, enhanced security features
- Faster record access, ability to insert and delete records randomly, supports direct access to records
- Sequential access with no random access, limited storage usage, suitable for small datasets
- Simple and easy to implement, lower storage requirements, suitable for large datasets
Relative file processing in COBOL offers advantages such as faster record access, the ability to insert and delete records randomly, and support for direct access to records based on relative record numbers. This makes it efficient for certain types of applications compared to sequential file processing.
In a COBOL program, you need to store a date of birth. Which data type should you use to ensure compatibility with international date formats?
- PIC 9(8)
- PIC 9(8) COMP-3
- PIC X(10)
- PIC X(8)
The PIC X(10) data type in COBOL is suitable for storing a date of birth while ensuring compatibility with international date formats. It allows for the representation of date values in a text format without imposing a specific internal structure.
What is the primary purpose of using subprograms in COBOL?
- To control program execution flow
- To declare variables in COBOL
- To handle input/output operations
- To modularize and organize code for better maintainability
Subprograms in COBOL are used to modularize code, allowing developers to break down a program into smaller, manageable parts. This promotes better code organization, readability, and maintenance.
In COBOL, when dealing with variable-length records, the "DEPENDING ON" clause is used to specify the ______ upon which the length of a record depends.
- data type
- field or condition
- file organization
- record type
The "DEPENDING ON" clause in COBOL is used to specify the field or condition upon which the length of a record depends. It allows the record length to vary dynamically based on the value of the specified field or condition. This is particularly useful when dealing with files containing variable-length records.
You are working on a COBOL program that deals with financial transactions. Which COBOL data type would you choose to store currency amounts with two decimal places accurately?
- PIC S9(11)V9(2) COMP
- PIC S9(11)V9(2) COMP-3
- PIC S9(13)V9(2) COMP
- PIC S9(13)V9(2) COMP-3
The PIC S9(11)V9(2) COMP-3 data type in COBOL is suitable for storing currency amounts with two decimal places accurately. It represents a packed-decimal format, ensuring precise storage and manipulation of decimal values.
What is the role of the "DATA DIVISION" in a COBOL program?
- Contains the procedures and logic of the program
- Declares the data items used in the program
- Defines the working storage section
- Specifies the file structure and access mode for all files used in the program
The "DATA DIVISION" in COBOL is used for declaring the data items that the program will use. It defines the structure of data, such as records and fields, and their characteristics.
The CURRENT-DATE special register stores the current _____ and _____.
- Date and Time
- Day and Month
- Month and Year
- Year and Time
The CURRENT-DATE special register in COBOL stores the current date and time, providing a convenient way to capture the system date and time when a program is executed.