Final Answer:
In SAS (Statistical Analysis System), the DATA step is one of the essential components for data manipulation and preparation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The processing of a DATA step occurs in two distinct phases: the compilation phase and the execution phase.
During the compilation phase, SAS reads through the DATA step, looking for any syntax errors and interpreting the instructions. If there are any syntactic issues, such as misspelled keywords, missing semicolons, incorrect statement options, or any other violations of the SAS programming language rules, SAS will detect them at this stage. If it finds any errors, it will usually stop the DATA step from proceeding to the execution phase until those errors are corrected.
In summary, the DATA step checks for syntax errors during the compilation phase. If the code is syntactically correct, SAS then proceeds to the execution phase, where it actually carries out the instructions provided in the DATA step to manipulate the dataset as specified.