Compiler-directing statements

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A compiler-directing statement is a statement that causes the compiler to take a specific action during compilation.

You can use compiler-directing statements for the following purposes:

  • Extended source library control (BASIS, DELETE, and INSERT statements)
  • Source text manipulation (COPY and REPLACE statements)
  • Exception handling (USE statement)
  • Controlling compiler listings (*CONTROL, *CBL, EJECT, TITLE, SKIP1, SKIP2, and SKIP3 statements)
  • Specifying compiler options (CBL and PROCESS statements)
  • Specifying COBOL exception handling procedures (USE statements)

The following compiler directing statements have no effect: ENTER, READY or RESET TRACE, SERVICE LABEL, and SERVICE RELOAD.