How To Fix AD226 - Too many nested INCLUDEs

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AD - Data Dictionary application messages

• Message number: 226

• Message text: Too many nested INCLUDEs

What causes this issue?

Included tables can be nested a maximum of 9 times. Nesting implies
several levels of included tables; an included table includes another
table, which in turn includes a table, and so on.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

You can reduce the number of nesting levels by replacing an included
table by its fields. You should choose a table that has been included
only once.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AD226 - Too many nested INCLUDEs ?

  The SAP error message AD226 "Too many nested INCLUDEs" typically occurs during the compilation of ABAP programs when the system encounters an excessive number of nested INCLUDE statements. This can happen when an INCLUDE file includes another INCLUDE file, leading to a deep nesting structure that exceeds the allowed limit.
  Cause:
  
  Excessive Nesting: The primary cause of this error is that the program has too many levels of nested INCLUDE files. SAP has a limit on how many INCLUDE files can be nested within each other.
  Circular References: Sometimes, circular references can lead to excessive nesting, where two or more INCLUDE files reference each other, causing an infinite loop in the inclusion process.
  Poor Design: The design of the program may not be optimal, leading to unnecessary complexity and deep nesting of includes.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review INCLUDE Structure: Check the structure of your INCLUDE files. Identify the files that are included and how many levels deep they go. Try to flatten the structure by reducing the number of nested includes.
  Refactor Code: If possible, refactor the code to minimize the use of INCLUDE files. Combine smaller INCLUDE files into larger ones if they are closely related, or break down large INCLUDE files into smaller, more manageable pieces.
  Avoid Circular References: Ensure that there are no circular references among your INCLUDE files. This can be done by carefully reviewing the dependencies between the files.
  Use Local Classes or Methods: If the INCLUDE files are being used to define reusable code, consider using local classes or methods instead, which can help encapsulate functionality without the need for excessive includes.
  Check for Unused INCLUDES: Remove any INCLUDE statements that are not necessary or are not being used in the program.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific recommendations or patches related to this error. Sometimes, SAP may provide updates or best practices for handling such issues.
  ABAP Development Guidelines: Follow best practices for ABAP development, which often include guidelines on structuring code and using INCLUDE files effectively.
  Performance Considerations: Excessive nesting can also lead to performance issues, so optimizing the structure can improve both maintainability and performance.
  
  By addressing the nesting issue and refactoring the code as necessary, you should be able to resolve the AD226 error and improve the overall quality of your ABAP programs.