How To Fix GB008 - Character string ' & ' incorrectly positioned

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GB - Messages used by the Boolean code generator

• Message number: 008

• Message text: Character string ' & ' incorrectly positioned

What causes this issue?

The syntax of the boolean statement is incorrect.
The token specified is not in the correct position within the boolean
expression. This can be caused by omitting a token directly before
this token is declared.
E.g. true ( and false or false )

System Response

The code generation is aborted.

How to fix this error?

Check the syntax of the statement. Check that no part of the statement
has been omitted. Check that key words such us NOT, '(' or <tab> are
correctly positioned.
E.g. true and ( false or false )

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GB008 - Character string ' & ' incorrectly positioned ?

  The SAP error message GB008, which states "Character string ' & ' incorrectly positioned," typically occurs in the context of SAP ABAP programming or when dealing with certain data input fields. This error indicates that there is an issue with the placement of the ampersand (&) character in a string or a field that is being processed.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Syntax: The ampersand character is often used in ABAP for string concatenation or as a placeholder for variables. If it is not used correctly, it can lead to this error.
  Invalid Input: If the input data contains an ampersand in a position where it is not expected (e.g., in a field that does not allow special characters), this error may occur.
  Formatting Issues: The error can also arise from incorrect formatting in reports, selection screens, or other user interfaces where the ampersand is misused.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Syntax: Review the ABAP code or the input data to ensure that the ampersand is used correctly. If it is being used for concatenation, ensure that it is placed between valid strings or variables.
  Escape the Ampersand: If the ampersand is intended to be part of the string (not as a concatenation operator), you may need to escape it. In ABAP, you can use double ampersands (&&) to represent a single ampersand in certain contexts.
  Validate Input Data: If the error occurs due to user input, implement validation checks to ensure that the input does not contain invalid characters or is formatted correctly.
  Debugging: Use debugging tools in SAP to trace where the error occurs in the code. This can help identify the exact line or operation that is causing the issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP ABAP documentation for guidelines on string handling and the use of special characters.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels where similar issues may have been discussed, providing insights or solutions from other users.
  
  By addressing the syntax and ensuring proper usage of the ampersand character, you should be able to resolve the GB008 error in SAP.