Patent US 6,205,534

In a data processing apparatus, a decoding unit decodes instructions. A calculator operates N-bit data in accordance with the decoded results. A flag storage unit stores a plurality of flag groups which are changed in correspondence to data having different widths, based on the operated results. Selectors select a predetermined flag group in accordance with the direction of a conditional branch instruction. A branch judging unit judges whether a branch is taken or not by referring to the selected flag group.