How To Fix E2231 - Direct type specification has been enabled

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: E2 - DE Data Dictionary

• Message number: 231

• Message text: Direct type specification has been enabled

What causes this issue?

You have enabled direct entry for the data type, length and short
description of a field.
You can mix this kind of field with fields whose attributes are set by
specifying a data element and domain.

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?

Ensure that fields without a data element have only a restricted
function. If you use a field on a screen, it should always be linked to
a data element.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message E2231 - Direct type specification has been enabled ?

  The SAP error message E2231, which states "Direct type specification has been enabled," typically occurs in the context of ABAP programming. This error is related to the use of data types in your ABAP code, particularly when you are trying to declare a variable or a data object without specifying its type correctly.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when the ABAP program attempts to use a direct type specification (like TYPE or LIKE) in a context where it is not allowed or when the type is not defined properly. This can happen due to:
  
  Incorrect Type Declaration: You may have declared a variable without specifying its type correctly.
  Incompatible Data Types: The type you are trying to use may not be compatible with the context in which it is being used.
  Legacy Code: If you are working with older ABAP code, it may not conform to the current standards or practices.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the E2231 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Type Declarations: Review the variable declarations in your code. Ensure that all variables are declared with a valid type. For example:
  DATA: lv_variable TYPE string.
  
  
  Use Proper Data Types: If you are using a structure or a table, ensure that you are using the correct type. For example, if you are using a structure, you should declare it like this:
  TYPES: BEGIN OF ty_structure,
           field1 TYPE string,
           field2 TYPE i,
         END OF ty_structure.
  DATA: ls_structure TYPE ty_structure.
  
  
  Avoid Direct Type Specification: If you are using LIKE or TYPE in a context where it is not allowed, consider using a more explicit type declaration.
  
  
  Check for Syntax Errors: Sometimes, syntax errors in the code can lead to misleading error messages. Ensure that your code is syntactically correct.
  
  
  Use the ABAP Editor: Utilize the ABAP editor's syntax check feature (Ctrl + F2) to identify and correct any issues in your code.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the types you are using, refer to the SAP documentation or the ABAP keyword documentation for guidance on data types.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Data Types: Familiarize yourself with the various data types available in ABAP, such as elementary types, structured types, and table types.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific issues related to your version of SAP that might provide additional context or solutions.
  Community Forums: Engage with the SAP community forums or Stack Overflow for insights from other developers who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the E2231 error and ensure that your ABAP code is correctly structured and compliant with SAP standards.