How do you apply a format to a variable in a PROC PRINT?

Applying a format to a variable in a PROC PRINT is commonly done using the FORMAT statement within the PROC itself. This method allows for the immediate application of formatting to selected variables when generating the output, ensuring that the display of data is presented in a user-friendly manner.

For example, if you want to format a date variable, you can include a FORMAT statement within your PROC PRINT code, which directly affects how that variable is represented in the output without needing to alter the original dataset or create a separate data processing step.

While other options might hint at valid methods of altering variable formats, they do not address the specific ability to format within PROC PRINT directly at that moment of reporting. For instance, modifying the original data file or setting format options in a DATA step might entail more extensive changes or preparations before printing, whereas using a FORMAT statement allows for a quick, targeted application of formats for immediate use in the report.