What does the OPTION statement do in a SAS session?

The OPTION statement in a SAS session is used to set system options that control various aspects of SAS behavior. This can include numerous settings that affect how SAS operates, such as how it handles memory, the output format, error messages, and display options. By using the OPTION statement, a user can customize the SAS environment to suit their specific needs or preferences, enhancing productivity and improving the overall user experience.

For instance, options can be set to control the amount of output displayed in the SAS log, determine whether or not warnings are shown, adjust the default title or footnotes, and many other behaviors. This flexibility is crucial for users who require a tailored SAS environment for their analyses or reporting tasks.

The other choices do not accurately describe the function of the OPTION statement. SAS datasets are created using DATA steps or certain PROC steps. Similarly, executing PROC steps is handled by invoking PROC statements directly, not through the OPTION statement. Lastly, user permissions for accessing datasets are managed through different mechanisms in SAS, such as access control and libraries, rather than through system options.