The Reference Data Set List is a special personal data set list that contains a list of up to 30 data set names (and the volumes on which they are located), data set level names, and z/OS® UNIX file path names that you have referenced (that is, entered on panels or called with services) throughout ISPF. Data set names are also added to the list when ISPF refers to them; for example, during a MOVE/COPY operation or a DELETE function. ISPF adds z/OS UNIX file path names to the Reference Data Set List whenever they are referenced in Edit, Browse, or View, or on the z/OS UNIX Directory List Utility entry panel. Data Set Level names are added when entered on option 3.4 (Data Set List), option 11(Workplace) or as a parameter on the command DSLIST.

The reference data set list is a personal data set list with the name REFLIST. The name REFLIST is reserved by ISPF to refer to the reference list, but you can use the list just like any other list. If you save a personal list under the name REFLIST, the reference list reflects the names you save into it, but it is still updated when other data set are referenced by ISPF.

You can control the automatic updating of the reference list with data sets or z/OS UNIX files and pathnames with the option Automatically update reference list by using the settings panel on any personal list, the settings panel on Workplace, or the DSLIST Settings panel of the data set list facility (ISPF option 3.4).

The automatic updating of the reference list with the data set name level can be controlled with the option Update REFLIST with Dsname Level on the settings panel of the personal lists or the workplace.

ISPF does not automatically store workstation files in the data set reference list; however you can add them manually.