Syntax Editor

SPSS syntax is a programming language unique to SPSS that can be used as an alternative to the drop-down menus for data manipulation and statistical analyses. The Syntax Editor window is where users can write, debug, and execute SPSS syntax.

 

 

• To open a new syntax editor window, click File, New, and then Syntax.

 

 

• You can paste the syntax code of every analysis you perform into a syntax editor window by clicking on Paste at the bottom of an analysis dialogue box.

 

 

• The left panel of the Syntax Editor window shows an outline of the commands in your syntax, and can be used to navigate within your code. You can jump to a specific part of your code by clicking on the command in the left panel.

 

 

• The right panel of the Syntax Editor window is where your syntax is entered.

 

 

• Syntax can be saved as an *.sps file by clicking File, and then Save or Save As within the Syntax Editor window.

 

 

• Then select the location of where you would like your syntax file saved by clicking the drop-down arrow next to the Look in: text box.

 

 

• Add a name for your syntax file in the File name: text box.

 

 

• Then click Save.