How To Fix 88290 - Key entries must be evaluated left-justified

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 88 - REA Processing

• Message number: 290

• Message text: Key entries must be evaluated left-justified

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 88290 - Key entries must be evaluated left-justified ?

  The SAP error message 88290, "Key entries must be evaluated left-justified," typically occurs when there is an issue with the way key fields are being processed in a transaction or report. This error is often related to the handling of key fields in database tables or data structures where the system expects the key entries to be aligned to the left.
  Cause:
  
  Key Field Alignment: The error usually arises when the key fields are not properly aligned or formatted. In SAP, key fields should be left-justified, meaning that any leading spaces or characters should be removed, and the actual data should start from the leftmost position.
  Data Entry Issues: If users are entering data manually, they might inadvertently include spaces or other characters that cause the key to be misaligned.
  Data Import/Export: When importing or exporting data, if the data is not formatted correctly, it can lead to this error.
  Custom Programs: If there are custom ABAP programs or reports that manipulate key fields, they may not be handling the formatting correctly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Data Entry: Ensure that any manual data entries do not include leading spaces or characters. Users should be trained to enter data correctly.
  Data Formatting: If the error occurs during data import, check the source data for leading spaces or incorrect formatting. Clean the data before importing it into SAP.
  Modify Custom Programs: If the error is coming from a custom ABAP program, review the code to ensure that key fields are being handled correctly. Use functions like LTRIM() to remove leading spaces from strings.
  Use Standard Transactions: If possible, use standard SAP transactions and reports that are designed to handle key fields correctly, rather than custom solutions.
  Debugging: If the issue persists, use the SAP debugger to trace the execution of the program or transaction to identify where the misalignment occurs.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to the specific module or transaction where the error occurs to understand the expected format for key fields.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By addressing the formatting and alignment of key fields, you should be able to resolve the error message 88290 in SAP.