Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the best resources for learning SAS programming, specifically in the context of using SAS Enterprise Guide 7.1. Participants explore the balance between using the drag-and-drop features of Enterprise Guide and writing custom code, as well as the types of books that would be beneficial for learning both the software and the underlying SAS programming language.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant notes that SAS Enterprise Guide allows for both drag-and-drop functionality and the ability to write custom code, questioning if the syntax is similar to other SAS software.
- Another participant confirms that while Enterprise Guide has a drag-and-drop interface, understanding Base SAS programming is essential to fully utilize its features.
- A participant suggests that to learn the basics of Enterprise Guide, one could use an EGuide-specific book, but for coding, a Base SAS book would be necessary.
- One participant admits to having no experience with Enterprise Guide and cannot provide recommendations.
- A different participant shares personal notes created while learning SAS, indicating that they found typical introductions too verbose for someone with a coding background and suggests that their notes might be useful.
- This participant also mentions finding another document that could provide useful introductory information, though they cannot recall its origin.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express varying levels of familiarity with SAS Enterprise Guide, leading to differing opinions on the best resources for learning. There is no consensus on specific book recommendations, and the discussion remains open-ended regarding the best approach to learning both Enterprise Guide and Base SAS.
Contextual Notes
Some participants express uncertainty about the exact resources available for learning SAS Enterprise Guide and Base SAS, and there are limitations in the recommendations provided, as not all participants have firsthand experience with the software.
There are a few other SAS users around who may be able to offer more suggestions -