Master Mainframe Technologies - COBOL, JCL, DB2, VSAM, CICS & More
ABEND Codes SQLCODEs File Status Interview Prep Contact
← Back to COBOL Basics
COBOL Basics | Beginner | COBOL

STOP RUN vs GOBACK

Problem Description

Explain and demonstrate the difference between STOP RUN and GOBACK.

Expected Output

Understanding program termination

Hints

STOP RUN ends program, GOBACK returns to caller.

Solution

IDENTIFICATION DIVISION. PROGRAM-ID. MAINPROG. * STOP RUN - Terminates the entire run unit * GOBACK - Returns control to calling program * * Use STOP RUN in main programs * Use GOBACK in subprograms called via CALL DATA DIVISION. WORKING-STORAGE SECTION. 01 WS-MSG PIC X(30). PROCEDURE DIVISION. MOVE "MAIN PROGRAM EXECUTING" TO WS-MSG. DISPLAY WS-MSG. * For main program, use STOP RUN STOP RUN. * * If this were a subprogram: * GOBACK. * Would return to the calling program

Explanation:

STOP RUN terminates run unit. GOBACK returns to caller (use in subprograms).