COBOL Realtime (Scenario based) Interview Questions (71 - 74)

71. How is sorting achieved in the COBOL program?

Sorting is achieved using the SORT statement, which allows internal sorting of records based on specified keys.

72. What are some of the guidelines that can be followed while developing a structured COBOL program?

To ensure clarity, maintainability, and efficiency, follow these structured COBOL programming guidelines:

• Use Meaningful Names: Use self-explanatory variable and paragraph names.
• Follow Modular Programming: Divide the program into small, reusable sections or paragraphs.
• Avoid GO TO Statements: Use structured control flow (IF, EVALUATE, PERFORM) instead of GO TO.
• Use Scope Terminators (END-IF, END-PERFORM): Enhances readability and prevents logic errors.
• Use EVALUATE Instead of Nested IF: Simplifies complex conditional logic.
• Use Proper Indentation and Comments: Maintain consistent formatting for readability.
• Optimize File Handling: Open files only when needed and close them after processing.

73. Can we use JUSTIFIED for all data types in COBOL?

No, JUSTIFIED can only be used with PIC X (Alphanumeric) data types.

74. Which formula will you use to calculate how many bytes does S9(n) COMP-3 fields occupy, where n is any number?

Formula:

Bytes Required = (n+1)​/2

(Always round up to the next whole number)

---