This handbook shows readers how best to manage and manipulate data by using the DATA step in SAS, helping them avoid common problems when creating SAS data sets. The author explains that learning syntax does not solve all problems; rather, a thorough comprehension of SAS processing is needed for successful programming. He also guides readers through a programming task. In most of the examples, the author first presents strategies and steps for solving the problem, then offers a solution, and finally gives a more detailed explanation of the solution.