COBOL is the language most mainframe business programs are written in. A program is split into four divisions. IDENTIFICATION names the program, ENVIRONMENT names the files, DATA describes the fields, and PROCEDURE DIVISION is the statements that run. Start with a small program that displays one line, then use the index below when you need a statement.
The smallest useful program has a PROGRAM-ID and one DISPLAY in the PROCEDURE DIVISION. The line starts in column 12. DISPLAY writes text to the job log. After that works, add a WORKING-STORAGE field and a MOVE. The index under this section is every COBOL page on the site, grouped so you can jump to a statement once the shape of a program is familiar.
Pick a topic and open the page. Core Concepts is the path for a first week. Quick Reference is the lookup list.
Find the topic you're interested in and click the link to go directly to that tutorial. Each tutorial includes examples, explanations, and practical exercises to help you learn.
For quick access to specific COBOL statements, verbs, and concepts, visit ourCOBOL Quick Reference section.