How To Fix BSFC018 - An answer with key &1 and variant &2 already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BSFC - Message Table for BSFC

• Message number: 018

• Message text: An answer with key &1 and variant &2 already exists

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BSFC018 - An answer with key &1 and variant &2 already exists ?

  The SAP error message BSFC018 indicates that there is a duplicate entry for a key and variant combination in the system. This typically occurs in the context of configuration settings, such as when defining variants for reports or other settings where unique identifiers are required.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when you attempt to create or save a new entry that has the same key and variant as an existing entry in the system. This can happen due to:
  
  Attempting to create a new variant with the same name as an existing one.
  Importing or uploading data that contains duplicate entries.
  Manual entry errors where the same key and variant are inadvertently reused.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the BSFC018 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Variants:
  
  Navigate to the relevant transaction or configuration area where the error occurred.
  Look for existing entries with the same key and variant. You can usually do this by using the search or display functionality.
  
  
  
  Modify or Delete Existing Entry:
  
  If you find an existing entry that conflicts with your new entry, you can either:
  
  Modify the existing entry to change its key or variant.
  Delete the existing entry if it is no longer needed.
  
  
  
  
  
  Use a Unique Key/Variant:
  
  When creating a new entry, ensure that the key and variant you are using are unique. Consider appending a number or a descriptive suffix to differentiate it from existing entries.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the specific context of the error, refer to SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific module or transaction you are working with.
  
  
  
  Check for Transport Issues:
  
  If this error occurs after a transport request, ensure that the transport did not inadvertently bring in duplicate entries.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be working with transaction codes like SE93 (for variants), SE38 (for report variants), or others related to the specific module.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to modify or delete entries in the system.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the BSFC018 error and proceed with your work in SAP.