Re: How do I code a GOTO in free format

[Simon Coulter <shc@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On 23/07/2009, at 6:38 AM, Steve Roper wrote:

> Can anyone help please I am converting an old RPG program
> into RPG IV free format
>
> The program uses a GOTO and TAG to exit from the middle of a
> three level nesting of IF's
>
> And needs to bypass much more code after the  highest ENDIF,
> this is all dependent on a Flag returned from an external program.

Yuck. You cannot code a GOTO in free-format. If you cannot devise a  
structured solution then end free-format, code the GOTO, and start  
free-format again.

	 /END-FREE
	C		GOTO	JUMP_POINT
	 /FREE

Do similar around the TAG.

Ugly? Yes, but then so is the code you describe so pick the lesser of  
the two evils.

There are other contorted solutions such as a fake loop, a flag, and  
LEAVE to provide a "structured" solution. These tend to be just as ugly.

I'd suggest breaking the code up into procedures to remove the code  
from the main body. Then wrap the procedures in IF tests conditioned  
on the flag returned from the external program. You'll end up with  
cleaner code as a result.

Regards,
Simon Coulter.
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