How To Fix AQ879 - Subtotals for sorted numeric columns are not allowed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AQ - Message texts for SAP Query

• Message number: 879

• Message text: Subtotals for sorted numeric columns are not allowed

What causes this issue?

You attempted to calculate sub-totals for a sort field which itself
contains numeric values, but this is not possible.

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?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AQ879 - Subtotals for sorted numeric columns are not allowed ?

  The SAP error message AQ879, which states "Subtotals for sorted numeric columns are not allowed," typically occurs in the context of SAP reporting tools, such as SAP Query or SAP List Viewer (ALV), when you attempt to create subtotals for a numeric column that has been sorted.
  Cause:
  The error arises because SAP does not allow subtotals to be calculated on numeric columns that are sorted. This is due to the way the data is processed and displayed. When a numeric column is sorted, the system cannot accurately compute subtotals because the order of the data may not align with the subtotal calculations.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Remove Sorting: If possible, remove the sorting on the numeric column for which you are trying to create subtotals. You can do this in the report layout or settings.
  
  
  Change the Order of Operations: If you need both sorting and subtotals, consider changing the order of operations. For example, you can first calculate the subtotals and then sort the results afterward, if your reporting tool allows for this.
  
  
  Use Alternative Columns: If the subtotal is essential, consider using a different column that is not sorted for the subtotal calculation, or create a separate report that calculates subtotals without sorting.
  
  
  Check Report Settings: Review the settings in your report or query to ensure that you are not inadvertently applying sorting to numeric columns when subtotals are required.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources specific to the reporting tool you are using for additional guidance on handling subtotals and sorting.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide additional context or updates regarding this issue.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered this issue and what solutions they have found.
  Training and Documentation: If you frequently work with SAP reporting tools, consider training or reviewing documentation on best practices for creating reports, especially regarding sorting and subtotaling.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the AQ879 error and successfully create your report with the desired subtotals.