Introduction to Cobol Programming

Unlock the enduring power of COBOL and elevate your programming expertise with this rigorously academic textbook that makes learning one of the world's most reliable languages both engaging and accessible. Designed for students, educators, and professionals alike, this comprehensive guide walks you through every essential concept with clear, full-code examples and hands-on exercises that illuminate even the most challenging topics.

Experience step-by-step lessons that cover everything from the fundamental structure of a COBOL program and precise data definitions to real-world file handling, arithmetic operations, and robust modular programming techniques. Imagine mastering detailed examples such as the complete breakdown of the SORT and MERGE statements or the practical implementation of the PERFORM loop for repetitive tasks-each concept is paired with fully functional code to reinforce your understanding.

Inside, you will discover:

• Clear Code Demonstrations: Full-length examples illustrate everything from basic MOVE operations to complex conditional logic and error handling.

• Step-by-Step Explanations: Each chapter builds upon the previous one, ensuring that even beginners can progress to writing powerful, maintainable COBOL applications.

• Practical Insights: Learn how to leverage declaratives, manage file systems effectively, and structure modular programs that are ready for real-world, mission-critical applications.

Empower your learning journey and confidently navigate legacy systems with an authoritative guide that combines academic rigor with practical application. Whether you're refreshing your skills or diving into COBOL for the first time, this textbook is your key to mastering a language that continues to drive critical business applications worldwide.