Learn COBOL with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 19, 2025
Installation Setup
Install OpenCOBOL/GNUCOBOL compiler
Optionally install IBM Enterprise COBOL (licensed)
Set up environment variables for cobc compiler
Write initial COBOL hello world program
Compile via cobc -x file.cob
Environment Setup
Install COBOL compiler
Configure runtime environment
Set PATH for cobc or MF tools
Prepare datasets or input files
Run test batch jobs
Config Files
Copybooks (.cpy)
JCL job scripts
DB2 configuration files
Micro Focus project configs
Dataset definitions
Cli Commands
cobc -x program.cob
cobc -c program.cob
submit JCL job
db2 bind/run
microfocus CLI operations
Internationalization
Supports international character sets
Handles multi-format numeric and text data
Compatible with mainframe localization standards
Record formats accommodate global specs
Used globally in banking/government
Accessibility
Readable English syntax
Clear program structure
Verbose format aids understanding
Large enterprise documentation
Strong community around mainframes
Ui Styling
COBOL is not a UI-first language
Simple text screens for input/output
CICS screens for transactions
Terminal-based UI layouts
No built-in graphical UI capabilities
State Management
Variables defined via PIC clauses
Records maintain structured data
Working-Storage Section for persistent state
Local state via PERFORM routines
Files store external state
Data Management
Sequential & indexed file handling
Record definitions in DATA DIVISION
Copybooks for consistent layouts
DB2 or VSAM dataset integration
Batch input/output streams