How To Fix DDLS183 - Columns, arithm. expressions, and predefined functions allowed after CASE

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DDLS - For DDL source handling

• Message number: 183

• Message text: Columns, arithm. expressions, and predefined functions allowed after CASE

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.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DDLS183 - Columns, arithm. expressions, and predefined functions allowed after CASE ?

  The SAP error message DDLS183 indicates that there is a syntax issue in your SQL statement, specifically related to the use of the CASE expression. This error typically arises when the SQL statement does not conform to the expected syntax rules for using CASE in a SQL query.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when you attempt to use a CASE statement in a way that is not allowed by the SQL syntax. The CASE expression is used to return values based on certain conditions, but it must be structured correctly. The error message suggests that you are trying to use columns, arithmetic expressions, or predefined functions in a way that is not permitted after the CASE keyword.
  Example of Incorrect Usage:
  SELECT 
      CASE 
          WHEN condition1 THEN column1
          WHEN condition2 THEN column2 + column3  -- This might cause the error
          ELSE default_value
      END AS result
  FROM table_name;
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, ensure that the CASE expression is structured correctly. Here are some guidelines:
  
  
  Use Simple Expressions: Ensure that the THEN part of the CASE statement returns a single value (like a column or a constant) rather than an arithmetic expression or function that is not allowed.
  
  
  Correct Syntax: The correct syntax for a CASE statement is as follows:
  SELECT 
      CASE 
          WHEN condition1 THEN result1
          WHEN condition2 THEN result2
          ELSE default_value
      END AS result
  FROM table_name;
  
  
  Check for Nested CASE: If you need to perform calculations, consider using nested CASE statements or performing the calculations outside of the CASE expression.
  
  
  Example of Correct Usage:
  SELECT 
      CASE 
          WHEN condition1 THEN column1
          WHEN condition2 THEN column2
          ELSE default_value
      END AS result,
      column2 + column3 AS total  -- Perform arithmetic outside of CASE
  FROM table_name;
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation for SQL syntax and the CASE expression for more detailed information.
  Testing: Test your SQL queries incrementally to isolate the part of the query causing the error.
  Debugging: Use tools like SQL trace or debugging features in your SAP environment to get more insights into the error.
  
  By following these guidelines, you should be able to resolve the DDLS183 error and successfully execute your SQL query.