How To Fix ED542 - Cursor is not on first line of an include

ED542 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ED - ABAP/4 Editor messages

• Message number: 542

• Message text: Cursor is not on first line of an include

What causes this issue?

The commands for saving or compressing a cancelled include can only be
used on the special comment line
*$*$------- Start of INCLUDE .....

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 ED542 - Cursor is not on first line of an include ?

  The SAP error message ED542, which states "Cursor is not on first line of an include," typically occurs when you are trying to execute or manipulate an ABAP program or include file, and the cursor is not positioned at the beginning of the include file. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when you are trying to edit or execute an include file in the ABAP editor (SE38 or SE80).
  
  Cause:
  
  Cursor Position: The most common cause of this error is that the cursor is placed somewhere other than the first line of the include file when you attempt to execute or perform an action.
  Editing Mode: If you are in a mode that requires the cursor to be at the start of the include (like executing or activating), and it is not, this error will be triggered.
  Incorrect Navigation: Sometimes, navigating through the code or using shortcuts can lead to the cursor