How To Fix FDT_EXPRESSIONS747 - Column specified for sorting should be elementary

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FDT_EXPRESSIONS - Formula & Derivation Tool: Expressions

• Message number: 747

• Message text: Column specified for sorting should be elementary

What causes this issue?

You have requested that a column be sorted. However, the column has a
structure type assigned. This is not supported because the system cannot
determine which of the structure elements should be used for sorting.
Only columns used for storing elementary data types can be sorted.

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?

Choose a column with an elementary data type (like number or text) for
sorting.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FDT_EXPRESSIONS747 - Column specified for sorting should be elementary ?

  The SAP error message FDT_EXPRESSIONS747 indicates that there is an issue with the sorting configuration in a report or query where a non-elementary column is being used for sorting. In SAP, an elementary column refers to a basic field that can be directly sorted, while a non-elementary column might be a calculated field, a complex data type, or a field that is not directly sortable.
  Cause:
  The error typically arises in the following scenarios:
  
  Non-Elementary Field: You are trying to sort by a field that is not considered elementary, such as a calculated field or a field from a complex structure.
  Incorrect Configuration: The sorting configuration in the report or query is set incorrectly, leading to the use of a non-elementary column.
  Data Source Issues: The data source used for the report may not support sorting on the specified column.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Identify the Column: Determine which column is causing the issue. Review the sorting configuration in your report or query.
  
  
  Change the Sorting Column: If the column is non-elementary, replace it with an elementary column that can be sorted. This could be a direct field from the database that is not calculated or derived.
  
  
  Modify the Query/Report: If you are using a calculated field, consider modifying the query or report to sort by a different, elementary field instead.
  
  
  Check Data Source: Ensure that the data source you are using supports sorting on the specified column. If necessary, adjust the data source or use a different one that allows for sorting.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on sorting in the context of your report or query.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Elementary Fields: These are fields that can be directly retrieved from the database without any additional processing. Examples include standard fields like customer ID, order number, etc.
  Calculated Fields: These are fields that derive their values from other fields, often using formulas or functions. They may not be directly sortable.
  SAP Query and Reporting Tools: Familiarize yourself with the tools you are using (e.g., SAP Query, ABAP reports, etc.) to understand how they handle sorting and data types.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP community for further assistance.