How To Fix 00088 - Input must be in the format &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 00 -

• Message number: 088

• Message text: Input must be in the format &

What causes this issue?

Your entry does not match the specified template.

System Response

The entry in this field was rejected.

How to fix this error?

The entry must comply with the template format. The following template
characters have a special meaning:

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

<zh>_ (underscore) </> There should be an input character at this point.
This should be a digit for numeric fields.
<zh>, (decimal comma or point):</> is valid for numeric fields and
timestamps of type UTCLONG. A decimal point or comma is placed here.
(Setting is made in user master record).
<zh> . (thousands separator):</> is valid for numeric fields. The
separator appears between every three digits (optional). Depending on
the setting in the user master record, it can be a period or a comma.
<zh>V:</> is valid for numeric fields: the plus/minus sign is placed
here. If one is used, it must be placed on the right edge of the field.
The sign is '-' or ' '(blank character).
<zh>~ (tilde):</> is valid for numeric fields. Leading zeros must also
be specified from this point to the right (inclusive). Otherwise, this
character has the same meaning as the underscore. Leading zeros do not
need to be specifiied to the left of the tilde. Neither are they di
splayed in this position.
All other characters stand for themselves. When they are input, they
must be in the same position as in the template.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 00088 - Input must be in the format & ?

  The SAP error message "00088 Input must be in the format &" typically indicates that the input provided by the user does not conform to the expected format defined by the system. This error can occur in various contexts, such as when entering data in fields that have specific formatting requirements (e.g., dates, numbers, or codes).
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Format: The input does not match the required format. For example, if a date is expected in the format DD.MM.YYYY, entering it as MM/DD/YYYY would trigger this error.
  Data Type Mismatch: The input might be of the wrong data type, such as entering text in a numeric field.
  Field Length Exceeded: The input exceeds the maximum length allowed for that field.
  Special Characters: The input may contain invalid special characters that are not allowed in the specified format.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Format Requirements: Review the expected format for the input field. This information is often available in the field description or documentation.
  Correct Input: Adjust the input to match the required format. For example, if a date is required, ensure it is entered in the correct format (e.g., DD.MM.YYYY).
  Remove Invalid Characters: Ensure that the input does not contain any special characters or spaces that are not allowed.
  Field Length: Make sure that the input does not exceed the maximum length specified for the field.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the required format, consult the SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific transaction or module you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in specific transaction codes, so knowing the context can help in troubleshooting.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the correct data entry formats to minimize errors.
  Custom Fields: If the error occurs in a custom field, check the custom development documentation for specific format requirements.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be helpful to reach out to your SAP support team or consult with a technical expert who can provide further assistance.