How To Fix KQ057 - Enter a reference variant

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KQ - Error Messages for Customizing Product Costing

• Message number: 057

• Message text: Enter a reference variant

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KQ057 - Enter a reference variant ?

  The SAP error message KQ057, which states "Enter a reference variant," typically occurs in the context of the SAP Controlling (CO) module, particularly when dealing with reports or variants in the context of cost center accounting or profitability analysis.
  Cause:
  The error message KQ057 is triggered when a user attempts to execute a report or transaction that requires a reference variant, but none has been specified. A reference variant is a predefined set of parameters that can be used to filter or format the output of a report. This is often necessary for reports that require specific settings to be applied consistently.
  Solution:
  To resolve the KQ057 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check the Report Parameters:
  
  When executing the report, ensure that you have selected a valid reference variant. This can usually be done in the selection screen of the report.
  
  
  
  Create a Reference Variant:
  
  If no suitable reference variant exists, you may need to create one. This can typically be done by:
  
  Navigating to the report selection screen.
  Entering the desired parameters for the report.
  Saving these parameters as a variant by clicking on the "Save" button (often represented by a disk icon) and providing a name for the variant.
  
  
  
  
  
  Select the Variant:
  
  After creating the variant, make sure to select it from the dropdown list of available variants before executing the report.
  
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access and use the reference variants. If you do not have the required permissions, contact your SAP administrator.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  If you are unsure about the specific requirements for the report you are trying to run, consult the SAP documentation or help files related to that report.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes related to reporting in the CO module, such as KSB1 (Report: Actual Line Items), KOB1 (Report: Orders), or others.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific report or transaction you are using.
  User Training: If users frequently encounter this error, consider providing training on how to create and manage variants effectively.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the KQ057 error and successfully execute the desired report in SAP.