The only required program control statement in a DFSORT application is a SORT, MERGE, or OPTION statement that specifies whether you want to sort, merge, or copy records. (Copying can be specified on any of the three statements.)

SORT

Describes control fields if you are coding a sort application, or specifies a copy application. Indicates whether you want ascending or descending order for the sort.

MERGE

Describes control fields if you are coding a merge application, or specifies a copy application. Indicates whether you want ascending or descending order for the merge.

OPTION

Overrides installation defaults (such as EQUALS, CHALT, and CHECK) and supplies optional information (such as DYNALLOC and SKIPREC). Can specify a copy application.