30+ COBOL Interview Questions And Answers
COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) is a high-level programming language primarily used in business, finance, and administrative systems for companies and governments. Its strength lies in handling large volumes of data input and output. COBOL is known for its readability, reliability, and adaptability, which makes it ideal for business applications that require a lot of data processing. In a COBOL interview, you may be asked questions ranging from basic syntax and commands to more advanced concepts like file handling and database interaction. Below are essential COBOL interview questions for both beginners and advanced levels, along with tips for answering tough interview questions.
Most asked COBOL interview questions
Beginners
1.
What does COBOL stand for?
1.
What does COBOL stand for?
COBOL stands for Common Business-Oriented Language. It is primarily used in business, finance, and administrative systems.
2.
Explain the basic structure of a COBOL program.
2.
Explain the basic structure of a COBOL program.
The basic structure of a COBOL program includes four divisions: IDENTIFICATION DIVISION, ENVIRONMENT DIVISION, DATA DIVISION, and PROCEDURE DIVISION.
3.
What are data types in COBOL?
3.
What are data types in COBOL?
COBOL primarily has three data types: Numeric, Alphanumeric, and Alphabetic. Numeric types store numbers, Alphanumeric can store both letters and numbers, and Alphabetic types store letters only.
4.
What is a PIC clause in COBOL?
4.
What is a PIC clause in COBOL?
A PIC clause (Picture clause) defines the general characteristics and editing of the data item. For example, PIC X(10) means a field can store an alphanumeric string of up to 10 characters.
5.
How do you declare a variable in COBOL?
5.
How do you declare a variable in COBOL?
You declare a variable in the DATA DIVISION using a level number, a data name, a PIC clause, and an optional initial VALUE.
01 WS-VARIABLE PIC 9(5) VALUE 0.
6.
What does the ACCEPT statement do in COBOL?
6.
What does the ACCEPT statement do in COBOL?
The ACCEPT statement is used to take input from the user or the system. It reads data from the standard input device or from other system sources.
7.
How do you perform conditional processing in COBOL?
7.
How do you perform conditional processing in COBOL?
Use the IF statement for conditional processing. The general syntax includes IF, the condition, and THEN and ELSE clauses for actions based on the condition.
IF WS-VAR1 > WS-VAR2 THEN
MOVE ‘GREATER’ TO WS-RESULT
ELSE
MOVE ‘LESS’ TO WS-RESULT.
END-IF.
8.
What is a COBOL paragraph?
8.
What is a COBOL paragraph?
A paragraph is a set of sentences in the PROCEDURE DIVISION. Each paragraph has a name and ends with a period. Paragraphs help to organize the code logically.
9.
Explain the MOVE statement in COBOL.
9.
Explain the MOVE statement in COBOL.
The MOVE statement is used to transfer data from one variable to another. For example, MOVE 100 TO WS-VAR sets the value of WS-VAR to 100.
10.
What are the different types of divisions in a COBOL program?
10.
What are the different types of divisions in a COBOL program?
A COBOL program has four main divisions: IDENTIFICATION DIVISION, ENVIRONMENT DIVISION, DATA DIVISION, and PROCEDURE DIVISION. Each division serves a specific purpose.
11.
How do you define an array in COBOL?
11.
How do you define an array in COBOL?
You define an array (table) using the OCCURS clause in the DATA DIVISION. For example, the code snippet creates an array with 10 elements, each having a length of 10 characters.
01 WS-TABLE.
05 WS-ELEMENTS OCCURS 10 TIMES PIC X(10).
12.
What is a subroutine in COBOL?
12.
What is a subroutine in COBOL?
A subroutine is a segment of code that performs a specific task and can be called from different points in a program. They are written in the PROCEDURE DIVISION and can be called using the PERFORM statement.
13.
Explain the difference between a static and dynamic call in COBOL.
13.
Explain the difference between a static and dynamic call in COBOL.
In COBOL, a static call is a call to a subroutine where the program and subroutine are compiled as a single unit. A dynamic call allows the program to call different subroutines at runtime.
14.
What is the purpose of the INSPECT statement?
14.
What is the purpose of the INSPECT statement?
The INSPECT statement is used to analyze and modify strings. It can count occurrences of characters or replace specific characters within a string.
15.
How do you handle errors in COBOL?
15.
How do you handle errors in COBOL?
Errors in COBOL are handled using the FILE STATUS clause, which returns a status code after the execution of a file operation. Programs can check this status and handle errors accordingly.
Advanced
1.
What is the purpose of the EVALUATE statement in COBOL?
1.
What is the purpose of the EVALUATE statement in COBOL?
The EVALUATE statement is similar to a CASE or SWITCH statement in other languages. It simplifies multiple conditional checks and executes corresponding actions.
2.
Explain what a COBOL copybook is.
2.
Explain what a COBOL copybook is.
A copybook is a file containing COBOL source code, which can be included in multiple programs using the COPY directive. It is useful for code reuse and maintaining consistency.
3.
How do you use the REDEFINE clause in COBOL?
3.
How do you use the REDEFINE clause in COBOL?
The REDEFINE clause allows you to view the same storage area in multiple ways. For example, a numeric field can be redefined as an alphanumeric field for different processing requirements.
01 WS-NUMBER PIC 9(4).
01 WS-REDEFINITION REDEFINES WS-NUMBER PIC X(4).
4.
What is the significance of the PERFORM statement?
4.
What is the significance of the PERFORM statement?
The PERFORM statement is used for looping and calling subroutines. It can execute a set of statements multiple times or until a condition is met.
5.
How do you handle dynamic memory allocation in COBOL?
5.
How do you handle dynamic memory allocation in COBOL?
COBOL does not directly support dynamic memory allocation like some modern languages. However, you can simulate dynamic memory using tables and redefining storage.
6.
What are indexed files and how are they used in COBOL?
6.
What are indexed files and how are they used in COBOL?
Indexed files use unique keys to access records quickly. In COBOL, you can define and process indexed files using the FD (File Description) and various I/O operations like READ and WRITE.
7.
Explain the concept of inline PERFORM.
7.
Explain the concept of inline PERFORM.
An inline PERFORM executes a block of code within the PERFORM and END-PERFORM statements without referring to an external paragraph or section.
PERFORM
DISPLAY 'Hello, World!'
END-PERFORM
8.
What are Intrinsic Functions in COBOL?
8.
What are Intrinsic Functions in COBOL?
Intrinsic Functions are built-in functions in COBOL that perform a variety of operations like mathematical calculations, string handling, and date-time manipulations.
9.
How do you define a multi-dimensional array in COBOL?
9.
How do you define a multi-dimensional array in COBOL?
You define a multi-dimensional array using nested OCCURS clauses. For example, a matrix with 3 rows and 3 columns can be created like the code snippet.
01 WS-MATRIX.
05 WS-ROW OCCURS 3 TIMES.
10 WS-COLUMN OCCURS 3 TIMES PIC 9(2).
10.
What is a cursor and how is it used in COBOL?
10.
What is a cursor and how is it used in COBOL?
A cursor in COBOL is used in database operations to fetch multiple rows from a result set. It involves declaring, opening, fetching, and closing the cursor for navigation.
11.
Explain COBOL-DB2 integration.
11.
Explain COBOL-DB2 integration.
COBOL can interact with DB2 databases using SQL statements embedded in the code. This integration allows COBOL programs to perform database operations efficiently.
12.
What does the SET statement do in COBOL?
12.
What does the SET statement do in COBOL?
The SET statement assigns values to indices, switches, and pointers. It is commonly used with arrays and pointer variables.
13.
How do you perform file handling in COBOL?
13.
How do you perform file handling in COBOL?
File handling in COBOL involves using FILE CONTROL entries in the ENVIRONMENT DIVISION and file descriptors in the DATA DIVISION. Operations like OPEN, READ, WRITE, and CLOSE are used to manipulate files.
14.
What are logical and physical files in COBOL?
14.
What are logical and physical files in COBOL?
Logical files represent the view of the data used by the program, while physical files represent the actual storage on the system. COBOL maps logical files to physical files using file control entries.
15.
How can you use the STRING and UNSTRING statements?
15.
How can you use the STRING and UNSTRING statements?
The STRING statement concatenates multiple strings into one, while the UNSTRING statement breaks a string into multiple parts based on delimiters.
COBOL Interview Tips
Be Concise and Clear
When answering tough interview questions, it's essential to be concise and clear. Avoid rambling or going off-topic. Stick to the point and ensure your answer is easy to understand. This not only shows that you are knowledgeable but also that you can communicate effectively. Use examples wherever possible to illustrate your points. For instance, if asked about error handling in COBOL, briefly explain the role of the FILE STATUS clause and provide a simple example. Clear and concise answers help your interviewer grasp your understanding quickly and effectively.
Understand the Question Fully
Take your time to fully understand the question before you start answering it. If the question is unclear, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Understanding the question fully ensures that you provide the most relevant and accurate answer. It shows that you are attentive and methodical in your approach. For example, if asked about dynamic memory allocation in COBOL, first confirm whether the interviewer is referring to actual memory management or simulating dynamic memory using tables. Clarifying the question helps you give a precise answer.
Relate to Real-World Scenarios
Relate your answers to real-world scenarios whenever possible. This not only showcases your practical experience but also helps the interviewer see how you apply theoretical knowledge in real situations. For example, when discussing the use of the EVALUATE statement, mention a project where you used it to handle multiple conditional checks efficiently. Connecting theory to practice demonstrates your ability to perform in a work environment and adds credibility to your answers.
Stay Calm Under Pressure
Interviews can be stressful, especially when faced with tough questions. Staying calm under pressure is crucial. Take a deep breath before answering complex questions. If you don't know the answer, be honest about it but also show a willingness to learn. For instance, say, 'I'm not sure about that, but I would approach it by researching X or consulting Y.' This approach shows that you are honest and proactive. Maintaining composure under pressure reflects well on your ability to handle stressful situations at work.
Practice Makes Perfect
Prepare for tough questions by practicing before the interview. Use online resources, mock interviews, and coding exercises to hone your skills. Practice common questions related to COBOL, such as the use of specific statements or file handling. Practicing with sample questions builds your confidence and helps you articulate your answers smoothly during the actual interview. The more you practice, the more familiar you will become with the types of questions that may be asked, and the better you'll perform on the day of the interview.
FAQs
How much do COBOL developers get paid?
COBOL developers' salaries can vary widely based on experience and location. On average, they earn between $80,000 and $120,000 annually in the United States. Highly experienced developers or those working in specialized sectors may command higher salaries. Freelance COBOL developers may have hourly rates starting from $45. Read more
Are COBOL programmers still in demand?
Yes, COBOL programmers remain in high demand, particularly in sectors relying on legacy systems, such as finance, government, and healthcare. The need to maintain, update, and integrate these critical systems ensures that skilled COBOL developers remain valuable assets. Read more
How old is the average COBOL programmer?
The average age of COBOL programmers tends to be higher than developers in more modern languages, often between 50 and 60 years old. This reflects the language's longevity and the enduring expertise of its practitioners, many of whom have decades of experience. Read more
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