A comprehensive exposition of the new Cobol-85 language, discussing nearly every new and changed feature in the revised version. Details Cobol-85's potential impact on programs written in Cobol-68 and Cobol-74, giving guidance on conversion strategy. Written by a member of the ANSI committee involved in developing the standard, it features a behind-the-scenes look at the controversial language and the process of revising it. Includes a summary of all new, changed and obsolete features of Cobol-85; useful charts, tables, and examples; syntax skeletons, and a complete list of new reserved words.
