Variable names cannot start with numbers. Changing and defining variable types. To change the variable type, click on the Type button from the Define Variable box shown above. Choose the type you wish by clicking on the circle to the left of the appropriate type. Numeric is most common and is the default type.
String is any variable that contains alpha characters as data.
When you are finished, click Continue . Changing and defining column format. To assign column formats, click the Column Format button from the Define Variable box shown previously. Specify the width by selecting the Column Width field and typing the correct number. Choose the alignment by clicking on the circle to the left of the desired alignment.