The book helps novices avoid common mistakes resulting from a lack of understanding fundamental and unique SAS programming concepts. It explains that learning syntax does not solve all problems; rather, a thorough comprehension of SAS processing is needed for successful programming. The author also guides readers through a programming task. In most of the examples, the author first presents strategies and steps for solving the problem, then offers a solution, and finally gives a more detailed explanation of the solution.

Understanding the DATA steps, particularly the program data vector (PDV), is critical to proper data manipulation and management in SAS. This book helps SAS programmers thoroughly grasp the concept of DATA step processing and write accurate programs in the DATA step. Numerous supporting materials, including data sets and programs used in the text, are available on the book's CRC Press web page.