How To Fix MT004 - Specify a valid operator (instead of &)


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: MT - Field Selection

  • Message number: 004

  • Message text: Specify a valid operator (instead of &)

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  • 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.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MT004 - Specify a valid operator (instead of &) ?

    The SAP error message MT004, which states "Specify a valid operator (instead of &)," typically occurs in the context of using selection criteria in reports or queries where an invalid operator is specified. This error is often encountered in ABAP programs, selection screens, or when using transaction codes that involve filtering data.

    Cause:

    The error is caused by the use of an invalid or unsupported operator in a selection condition. In SAP, operators are used to define how data should be filtered or compared. Common operators include:

    • = (equals)
    • <> (not equal)
    • > (greater than)
    • < (less than)
    • >= (greater than or equal to)
    • <= (less than or equal to)
    • IN (in a list)
    • BETWEEN (within a range)

    The & symbol is not a valid operator in this context, which leads to the error message.

    Solution:

    To resolve the MT004 error, follow these steps:

    1. Check the Selection Criteria: Review the selection criteria you are using in your report or query. Ensure that you are using valid operators as listed above.

    2. Correct the Operator: Replace the invalid operator (&) with a valid one. For example, if you intended to check for equality, use = instead.

    3. Review Custom Code: If this error occurs in a custom ABAP program, check the code for any dynamic selection criteria that may be incorrectly formed. Ensure that the operators are correctly defined.

    4. Test the Changes: After making the necessary corrections, re-run the report or transaction to verify that the error has been resolved.

    Related Information:

    • Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for more information on valid operators and selection criteria.
    • SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific transaction or report you are using.
    • Community Forums: If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out to SAP community forums or support for additional assistance.

    By ensuring that you are using valid operators in your selection criteria, you should be able to resolve the MT004 error effectively.

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