Syntax statements
This topic explains conventions for showing syntax statements.
A sample statement follows:
The following table explains conventions for syntax statements and provides examples:
Convention | Example |
|---|---|
Items in italic type represent variables that you must replace with a name or value. If a variable is represented by two or more words, initial capitals distinguish the second and subsequent words. | alias databaseDirectory serverHostName |
Brackets indicate optional items. Do not type the brackets when you enter the option. A comma means that you can choose one or more of the listed options. You must use a comma to separate the options if you choose more than one option. | [tableName, columnName, field] [-full, -incremental, -level] |
Braces indicate that at least one of the enclosed items is required. Do not type the braces when you enter the item. | {DBDName | tableName} UNLOAD device={disk | tape, fileName | deviceName} {-a | -c} |
A vertical bar means that you can choose only one of the listed items. In the example, you would choose either commit or cancel. | {commit | cancel} |
An ellipsis indicates that you can repeat the previous item or items as many times as necessary. | columnName… |