You can use the preprocessor in two modes:
To check your SQL syntax.
To perform full preprocessing which includes SQL syntax
checking, creating compilable output, storing a module in a
DBEnvironment, and creating a file that contains an installable
copy of the stored module.
As you develop the SQL portions of your COBOL programs, syntax
checking mode is quite useful. Preprocessing is quicker in this
mode than in full preprocessing mode. In addition, you can
start debugging your SQL commands before the DBEnvironment
itself is in place.
Running the preprocessor in each of these modes is described
later in the chapter under "Invoking the COBOL Preprocessor."
