How To Fix GR505 - The formula contains invalid characters

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GR - Report Writer

• Message number: 505

• Message text: The formula contains invalid characters

What causes this issue?

The formula contains characters which cannot be interpreted.

System Response

The system marked the beginning of the invalid characters - as far as
possible - with a question mark '?'.

How to fix this error?

Correct the formula.
INCLUDE 'RG-RW-ROW_FORMULA_SYNTAX' OBJECT DOKU ID TX

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GR505 - The formula contains invalid characters ?

  The SAP error message GR505, which states "The formula contains invalid characters," typically occurs in the context of creating or modifying formulas in SAP, particularly in the areas of material management, production planning, or similar modules where formulas are used for calculations or specifications.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when the formula you are trying to enter contains characters that are not recognized or allowed by the SAP system. This can happen due to:
  
  Invalid Characters: The formula may include special characters, spaces, or symbols that are not permitted.
  Incorrect Syntax: The formula may not follow the expected syntax or structure required by SAP.
  Copy-Paste Issues: If the formula was copied from another source (like a document or spreadsheet), it may contain hidden characters or formatting that SAP cannot interpret.
  Data Type Mismatch: The formula may be trying to use incompatible data types or operations.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the GR505 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review the Formula: Check the formula for any invalid characters. Ensure that it only contains valid mathematical operators (like +, -, *, /) and recognized functions.
  
  
  Remove Special Characters: Eliminate any special characters or spaces that are not necessary. Stick to alphanumeric characters and standard operators.
  
  
  Check Syntax: Ensure that the formula adheres to the correct syntax as per SAP's requirements. Refer to the SAP documentation for the specific module you are working with to understand the expected format.
  
  
  Re-enter the Formula: Instead of copying and pasting, try typing the formula directly into the SAP interface to avoid hidden characters.
  
  
  Test with Simple Formulas: Start with a very simple formula to see if it works, then gradually build it up to identify where the error occurs.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the valid characters or syntax, consult the SAP help documentation or user manuals for guidance.
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP community forums for assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  User Manuals: Refer to user manuals or training materials specific to the module you are working with for examples of valid formulas.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums where other users may have encountered and resolved similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and correct the issue causing the GR505 error in SAP.