Working with numbers and arithmetic

In general, you can view COBOL numeric data as a series of decimal digit positions. However, numeric items can also have special properties such as an arithmetic sign or a currency sign.

To define, display, and store numeric data so that you can perform arithmetic operations efficiently:

  • Use the PICTURE clause and the characters 9, +, -, P, S, and V to define numeric data.
  • Use the PICTURE clause and editing characters (such as Z, comma, and period) along with MOVE and DISPLAY statements to display numeric data.
  • Use the USAGE clause with various formats to control how numeric data is stored.
  • Use the numeric class test to validate that data values are appropriate.
  • Use ADD, SUBTRACT, MULTIPLY, DIVIDE, and COMPUTE statements to perform arithmetic.
  • Use the CURRENCY SIGN clause and appropriate PICTURE characters to designate the currency you want.

related tasks  
Defining numeric data  
Displaying numeric data  
Controlling how numeric data is stored  
Checking for incompatible data (numeric class test)  
Performing arithmetic  
Using currency signs