Explain the concept of "nested scope" in COBOL with an example.
- It allows variables to be shared across all program blocks
- It limits the visibility of variables to the outermost program block
- It restricts the use of variables to the main program only
- Nested scope refers to the ability to define variables within inner program blocks that are only visible within those blocks
In COBOL, nested scope allows the definition of variables within inner program blocks, making them visible only within those blocks. For example, declaring variables inside a paragraph or a SECTION creates a nested scope.
When an exception occurs during file processing in COBOL, the associated error code can be found in the special register called _____.
- ERROR-CODE
- EXCEPTION-STATUS
- FILE-STATUS
- STATUS-CODE
In COBOL, when an exception occurs during file processing, the associated error code can be found in the special register called FILE-STATUS. Programmers can inspect this register to determine the nature of the error.
In COBOL, what is the purpose of the FUNCTION statement when using intrinsic functions?
- To call built-in intrinsic functions
- To declare variables
- To invoke user-defined functions
- To specify file operations
The FUNCTION statement in COBOL is used to call built-in intrinsic functions. It enables the use of predefined functions like NUMVAL, EDIT, and others, providing a convenient way to perform specific operations on data within a COBOL program.
The process of systematically finding and correcting errors in a COBOL program is known as _____.
- Compiling
- Debugging
- Testing
- Tracing
Debugging is the systematic process of finding and correcting errors in a COBOL program. It involves identifying and fixing issues to ensure the program functions as intended.
What is the benefit of using an index in COBOL arrays and tables?
- Enhanced data validation
- Improved access and manipulation of data
- Reduced storage requirements
- Simplified syntax
Using an index in COBOL arrays and tables provides improved access and manipulation of data. It allows for efficient retrieval of specific elements, making it easier to work with large datasets and enhancing program performance.
How can duplicate records in a COBOL file be identified?
- By comparing each record with a master file
- By performing a sequential search in the file
- By using the DUPLICATES phrase in the SELECT statement
- By utilizing the ALTERNATE KEY clause
Duplicate records in a COBOL file can be identified by using the DUPLICATES phrase in the SELECT statement. This allows the program to detect and handle records with identical key values efficiently.
What is the primary purpose of the COBOL Procedure Division?
- To declare data elements
- To define the file structure
- To handle program termination
- To specify the processing logic for the program
The COBOL Procedure Division is used to specify the processing logic for the program. It contains the statements that define the sequence of operations to be performed during program execution.
Can you use the REDEFINES clause to redefine a group data item in COBOL?
- No, REDEFINES can only be applied to elementary items
- No, group data items cannot be redefined in COBOL
- Yes, but only if the group data item has a subordinate item
- Yes, it allows a group data item to be redefined by another group or elementary item
In COBOL, the REDEFINES clause can be used to redefine a group data item. It allows a group data item to share the same storage space with another group or elementary item, providing flexibility in data structure representation.
The "AT END" clause is often used in conjunction with the "NOT ON EXCEPTION" clause to handle errors that occur at the _____ of file processing.
- Beginning
- End
- Middle
- Start
The "AT END" clause in COBOL is used in conjunction with the "NOT ON EXCEPTION" clause to handle errors that occur at the end of file processing. This is useful for performing cleanup or finalization tasks before the program concludes.
To handle file errors gracefully in COBOL, you can use the _____ clause to specify the procedure to be executed when an exception occurs.
- EXCEPTION HANDLING
- EXCEPTION PROCEDURE
- FILE STATUS
- ON EXCEPTION
In COBOL, the "ON EXCEPTION" clause is used to specify the procedure to be executed when an exception occurs during file operations. It allows for effective handling of errors and ensures the program can respond appropriately to unexpected situations.