How To Fix 28016 - Expression too long

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 28 - Configuration

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Expression too long

What causes this issue?

The syntax check found an expression which is too long.

System Response

The cursor marks the start of the incorrect expression.

How to fix this error?

Please note that language-independent characteristic names and
characteristic values cannot be longer than 30 characters.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 28016 - Expression too long ?

  The SAP error message "28016: Expression too long" typically occurs when a user tries to execute a program or transaction that contains an expression or statement that exceeds the maximum allowed length in SAP ABAP (Advanced Business Application Programming). This can happen in various contexts, such as when defining variables, writing complex calculations, or using long strings in your code.
  Cause:
  
  Exceeding Length Limits: In ABAP, there are specific limits on the length of expressions, which can vary depending on the context. For example, the maximum length for a single line of code is generally 72 characters, and for certain expressions, it can be even shorter.
  Complex Calculations: If you are performing complex calculations or concatenating long strings, you may inadvertently exceed the allowed length.
  Data Structures: When working with internal tables or structures, if you are trying to manipulate or access data in a way that results in a long expression, this error can occur.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Break Down Expressions: Simplify your code by breaking down long expressions into smaller, manageable parts. Assign intermediate results to variables to reduce the length of any single expression.
  DATA: lv_part1 TYPE string,
        lv_part2 TYPE string,
        lv_result TYPE string.
  
  lv_part1 = 'This is a long string that needs to be broken down'.
  lv_part2 = 'Another part of the string'.
  lv_result = lv_part1 && lv_part2.  " Concatenate shorter parts
  
  
  Use Temporary Variables: Instead of trying to perform all operations in one line, use temporary variables to store intermediate results.
  
  
  Review Data Types: Ensure that you are using appropriate data types for your variables. Sometimes, using a more suitable data type can help manage the length of expressions.
  
  
  Refactor Code: If the logic is too complex, consider refactoring the code to make it more readable and maintainable, which can also help avoid length issues.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP ABAP documentation for guidelines on coding standards and limitations.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to find discussions and solutions related to similar issues.
  Debugging Tools: Use the ABAP debugger to step through your code and identify where the expression length exceeds the limit.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "28016: Expression too long" error in your SAP ABAP programs.