Defining Complex Files

Most data files have a rectangular, case-ordered structure and can be read with the DATA LIST command. This chapter illustrates the use of commands for defining complex, nonrectangular files.

• Nested files contain several types of records with a hierarchical relationship among the record types. You can define nested files with the FILE TYPE NESTED command.
• Grouped files have several records per case, and a case’s records are grouped together in a file. You can use DATA LIST and FILE TYPE GROUPED to define grouped files.
• In a mixed file, different types of cases have different kinds of records. You can define mixed files with the FILE TYPE MIXED command.
• A record in a repeating data file contains information for several cases. You can use the REPEATING DATA command to define files with repeating data.

It is a good idea to read the descriptions of the FILE TYPE and REPEATING DATA commands before proceeding.