How To Fix GK018 - Invalid formula found while breaking down period category &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GK - Messages for SAP Consolidation

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Invalid formula found while breaking down period category &1

What causes this issue?

An invalid formula was found while breaking down the period categories.
The formula must contain valid periods only, separated by commas (,)
such as 3,6,9,12.

System Response

Error message

How to fix this error?

Please check the definition of the period categories in Customizing.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GK018 - Invalid formula found while breaking down period category &1 ?

  The SAP error message GK018, which states "Invalid formula found while breaking down period category &1," typically occurs in the context of the SAP Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with planning or budgeting scenarios. This error indicates that there is an issue with the formula used for breaking down a period category in a planning layout or report.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Formula Syntax: The formula defined for the breakdown of the period category may contain syntax errors or may not conform to the expected format.
  Missing or Incorrect Variables: The formula might reference variables or characteristics that are not defined or are incorrectly specified.
  Incompatible Data Types: The formula may be trying to perform operations on incompatible data types (e.g., trying to add a string to a number).
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the planning layout or the characteristics used in the formula.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check the Formula: Review the formula associated with the period category in question. Ensure that it adheres to the correct syntax and logic.
  Validate Variables: Ensure that all variables and characteristics referenced in the formula are correctly defined and available in the context of the planning layout.
  Test the Formula: If possible, test the formula in a simpler context to isolate the issue. This can help identify if the problem lies within the formula itself or its application.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings for the planning layout and ensure that all necessary settings are correctly defined.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on the specific formula syntax and requirements for the period category breakdown.
  Seek Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide more tailored assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like KP06 (for planning) or KPF6 (for planning layout) to access the relevant planning layouts and formulas.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address known issues or provide updates related to this error message.
  Community Forums: SAP Community and other forums can be valuable resources for finding similar issues faced by other users and potential solutions.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the GK018 error in your SAP system.