Where is the DATALINES statement typically located in a data step?

The DATALINES statement is typically placed as the last statement in a data step. This is because the DATALINES statement indicates that the subsequent lines contain the data to be read into the dataset. By placing it at the end, it ensures that the data values follow the context set up by previous statements in the data step, such as the DATA statement and any input formatting options.

Having the DATALINES at the end facilitates a clear structure; it allows the programmer to define any necessary attributes or variables before the actual data is encountered, making the flow of the code logical and easy to follow.

Other placements might lead to confusion or errors in reading the data correctly, as the software expects to read the data immediately after its associated DATALINES statement. Therefore, the consistent practice is to have it as the last statement, ensuring that all preceding definitions are complete before the data input begins.