How To Fix OL385 - Only optional parameters can be added to methods with a composite def.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: OL - Workflow object types: Run-time system

• Message number: 385

• Message text: Only optional parameters can be added to methods with a composite def.

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message OL385 - Only optional parameters can be added to methods with a composite def. ?

  The SAP error message OL385, which states "Only optional parameters can be added to methods with a composite def," typically occurs in the context of ABAP programming, particularly when dealing with method definitions in classes that use composite types.
  Cause:
  This error arises when you attempt to add a new parameter to a method that is defined in a class with a composite definition (like a structure or a table type) and the new parameter is not optional. In ABAP, when a method is defined with a composite type, any additional parameters must be optional. This is because the method signature must remain compatible with existing calls to the method, and adding mandatory parameters would break that compatibility.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should ensure that any new parameters you add to the method are optional. Here are the steps you can take:
  
  
  Modify the Method Signature: Change the new parameter to be optional. In ABAP, you can do this by defining the parameter with the OPTIONAL keyword.
  Example:
  METHOD my_method
    IMPORTING
      VALUE(param1) TYPE string
      OPTIONAL VALUE(new_param) TYPE string.  " Make this parameter optional
  ENDMETHOD.
  
  
  Check Existing Calls: If you have existing calls to this method, ensure that they do not require the new parameter. If they do, you may need to refactor those calls to handle the optional parameter appropriately.
  
  
  Review Composite Definitions: If you are working with composite types, review the definitions to ensure that they are correctly set up and that any changes you make do not violate the rules of method signatures in ABAP.
  
  
  Documentation: Always refer to the official SAP documentation or ABAP programming guidelines for best practices when modifying method signatures.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Method Definitions: Understanding how method definitions work in ABAP, especially with respect to optional and mandatory parameters, is crucial.
  Composite Types: Familiarize yourself with composite types in ABAP, including structures and internal tables, and how they interact with method definitions.
  Backward Compatibility: When modifying methods, always consider backward compatibility to avoid breaking existing functionality in your applications.
  
  By following these guidelines, you should be able to resolve the OL385 error and successfully modify your method as needed.