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COALESCE function
Learn COALESCE function in SAS through the exact construct, a dedicated example, a boundary case, and a mastery check.
COALESCE function is an atomic SAS lesson inside Functions. The example uses the specific syntax, command, API, instruction, or language rule named by this lesson.
Study the construct itself, then change one relevant input and predict the result before running it. That keeps this lesson focused on COALESCE function rather than on generic SAS syntax.
Topic-specific example
data _null_; a=.; b=7; x=coalesce(a,b,0); put x=; run;
For COALESCE function, inspect the SAS log as well as the output data set; type conversion, missing values, and BY-group ordering can change results without stopping execution.