How To Fix P0186 - Please do not partially delete fields, do not delete at the start

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: P0 - Messages for Transactions PE01, PE02 and PE03

• Message number: 186

• Message text: Please do not partially delete fields, do not delete at the start

What causes this issue?

The processed field was probably changed at the start or in two places
in the word simultaneously.

System Response

The form editor has not made any changes.
&WHAT-TO_DO&
Make individual changes sequentially
If possible, use the characteristic fields below to make changes. First
of all, double-click on the field.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message P0186 - Please do not partially delete fields, do not delete at the start ?

  The SAP error message P0186, "Please do not partially delete fields, do not delete at the start," typically occurs in the context of data entry or data manipulation within SAP, particularly when dealing with fields in a table or a structure. This error indicates that there is an issue with how fields are being modified or deleted, specifically that the operation is not allowed because it would result in an invalid state for the data structure.
  Cause:
  
  
  Partial Deletion: The error often arises when a user attempts to delete part of a field or a segment of data that is not allowed. For example, if a field is expected to be a complete entry (like a full name or a complete code), trying to delete only part of it can trigger this error.
  
  
  Deletion at the Start: The error message also suggests that deleting data from the beginning of a field or structure is not permitted. This could be due to the way the data is structured or how the application logic is designed.
  
  
  Data Integrity Rules: SAP has strict data integrity rules, and certain operations may violate these rules, leading to this error.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Review Data Entry: Ensure that you are not trying to delete only part of a field. If you need to modify a field, consider updating it instead of deleting it.
  
  
  Complete Deletion: If you need to delete a field, ensure that you are deleting the entire field rather than just a portion of it. 
  
  
  Check Field Lengths: Make sure that the data you are entering or modifying adheres to the expected lengths and formats defined in the data structure.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation or help resources for the specific transaction or module you are working with to understand the rules regarding field modifications.
  
  
  Use Transaction Codes: If applicable, use the appropriate transaction codes to manage data entries correctly. For example, if you are working with master data, ensure you are using the correct transaction for creating or modifying records.
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Notes for any known issues related to this error.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any updates or patches related to this error message. Sometimes, specific versions of SAP may have known issues that are documented in SAP Notes.
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help in managing data entries, such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE37 (Function Builder), or SE80 (Object Navigator).
  
  
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on the correct procedures for data entry and modification to minimize the occurrence of such errors.
  
  
  By following these guidelines, you should be able to resolve the P0186 error and ensure proper data handling within your SAP environment.