How To Fix DS031 - You can only edit type programs (name %_C...) using ABAP Dictionary

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DS - Messages for Editing Text Elements in ABAP Programs

• Message number: 031

• Message text: You can only edit type programs (name %_C...) using ABAP Dictionary

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DS031 - You can only edit type programs (name %_C...) using ABAP Dictionary ?

  The SAP error message DS031 indicates that you are trying to edit a program that is not allowed to be modified directly in the ABAP Editor. Specifically, this error occurs when you attempt to edit a type program (which typically has a name that ends with "_C") directly in the ABAP Editor, but such programs can only be modified through the ABAP Dictionary.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because:
  
  Type programs (like those generated for data dictionary objects) are intended to be managed through the ABAP Dictionary (transaction SE11) rather than being edited directly in the ABAP Editor (transaction SE38).
  The naming convention for type programs usually follows a specific pattern, and the system restricts direct editing to maintain data integrity and consistency.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Use the ABAP Dictionary:
  
  Instead of trying to edit the program directly, go to transaction SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  Locate the relevant data dictionary object (like a table, view, or data element) that corresponds to the type program you are trying to edit.
  Make the necessary changes to the data dictionary object. The type program will be regenerated automatically based on the changes you make.
  
  
  
  Check Object Type:
  
  Ensure that you are indeed working with a type program. If you are trying to edit a different type of program, verify that you have the correct program name and type.
  
  
  
  Authorization:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes in the ABAP Dictionary. If you do not have the required permissions, contact your SAP administrator.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the changes you need to make, consult the SAP documentation or your development team for guidance on how to properly modify the data dictionary objects.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SE11: Data Dictionary
  SE38: ABAP Editor
  SE80: Object Navigator (can also be used to navigate to data dictionary objects)
  
  
  
  Type Programs:
  
  Type programs are generated for data dictionary objects and are not meant to be edited directly. They are typically used for defining structures, types, and other data-related definitions.
  
  
  
  Best Practices:
  
  Always make a backup or document the current state of the data dictionary object before making changes.
  Test changes in a development or test environment before moving to production.
  
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DS031 error and make the necessary modifications to your data dictionary objects.