What is the function of the PUT statement in a DATA step?

The PUT statement within a DATA step serves a crucial function by allowing the programmer to write data values to the SAS log or to an external file. This capability is often utilized for debugging purposes, as it enables the user to view the values of variables at different stages of data processing. The data written by the PUT statement can include calculated values, character strings, and other variable contents, which aids in ensuring that the data manipulation is functioning as intended.

This function is particularly valuable when troubleshooting data issues or verifying data transformations, as it provides immediate feedback on how the data is being processed within the DATA step. By checking the SAS log, a programmer can identify any errors or unexpected values, which can be crucial in maintaining the integrity of the data analysis.

The other options describe different functionalities that do not align with the purpose of the PUT statement. For instance, while converting numeric variables to character variables, creating new variables for calculations, and filtering rows based on conditions are all important aspects of data manipulation in SAS, they are not the role of the PUT statement. Instead, SAS has specific functions and statements for those tasks, making the PUT statement distinct in its function of outputting information.