Overview

Class Central Tips

In this step-by-step SAS programming course, you'll begin by understanding why SAS is an easy-to-learn yet powerful tool for data analysis. We start with a simple introduction to SAS Studio and OnDemand, guiding you through installation, login procedures, and navigating the user interface. The lessons ensure you're comfortable with the SAS environment before diving into the technical aspects of programming. The core of the course takes you through data preparation, manipulation, and structuring techniques using both basic and advanced functions. You'll explore essential concepts like data steps, referencing, and importing data through various methods, followed by detailed lessons on conditional statements, data filtering, and working with dates. With over 50 lessons dedicated to SAS's data management capabilities, the course prepares you for handling large datasets efficiently. In the advanced section, you'll master SAS macros, PROC SQL, and visualizing data through charts, reports, and summary statistics. Finally, hands-on exercises like 'Project Cars' and 'Project Heavyweight' help consolidate your skills, ensuring you're ready to apply SAS in real-world scenarios. This course not only makes SAS programming accessible but also helps you become proficient in handling complex datasets and optimizing your code. This course is designed for data analysts, statisticians, and anyone interested in learning SAS for data management and analysis. No prior knowledge of SAS is required, though basic programming skills can be helpful.

Syllabus

Why Learn SAS

In this module, we will introduce the importance of learning SAS, highlighting its relevance in data analysis and industry applications. You will also get an overview of the course structure, outlining the main topics that will be covered throughout.

Getting Started with SAS Programming

In this module, we will explore why SAS is accessible for beginners and walk you through essential steps like registering for SAS OnDemand, logging into a SAS session, and navigating the user interface. You will gain practical insights into how to efficiently set up and start using SAS.

Preparing Data

In this module, we will dive into the essentials of preparing data in SAS. You will learn how to manage datasets, import data using multiple methods, and work with variables through creation, renaming, and conditional logic. This section also covers SAS functions and formatting techniques, equipping you with the tools to handle and manipulate data effectively.

Structuring Data

In this module, we will focus on organizing and structuring data in SAS, from stacking and merging to removing duplicates and sorting data across multiple levels. You'll also explore the use of PROC SQL for data manipulation and learn how to transpose data for advanced analytical workflows.

Visualizing Data

In this module, we will explore data visualization techniques in SAS, focusing on creating different types of charts and plots. You'll also learn how to generate report outputs and summary statistics, along with using ODS to format these reports for presentation and analysis.

Optimizing Code

In this module, we will explore techniques to optimize SAS code using macro variables and macros. You’ll learn how to apply these powerful tools to make your code more efficient and reusable, including working with nested macros and resolving ampersand references. Practical examples and functions will showcase how macros can automate and enhance your programming workflows.

Practice Exercise | Case Study

In this module, we will introduce the 'Project Heavyweight' case study, a guided exercise designed to apply the concepts you've learned. You will work with real data, using SAS to prepare, structure, and visualize it, while optimizing your code through the use of macros and other techniques. This hands-on experience will solidify your understanding of SAS in practical scenarios.