How To Fix PPEALV004 - You cannot sort according to the selected column. Choose another column.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PPEALV - Messages of Hierarchical and Column Group ALV

• Message number: 004

• Message text: You cannot sort according to the selected column. Choose another column.

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 PPEALV004 - You cannot sort according to the selected column. Choose another column. ?

  The SAP error message PPEALV004 ("You cannot sort according to the selected column. Choose another column.") typically occurs in the context of using the ALV (ABAP List Viewer) grid in SAP. This error indicates that the user is attempting to sort data based on a column that is not sortable. Here are some common causes, solutions, and related information for this error:
  Causes:
  
  
  Non-Sortable Column: The column you are trying to sort may not be defined as sortable in the ALV configuration. This can happen if the column is derived from a calculation or is a text field that does not have a defined sorting order.
  
  
  Technical Attributes: Some columns may have technical attributes that prevent sorting, such as being a field that is not part of the underlying database table or view.
  
  
  Field Type: Certain field types, such as long text fields or complex data types, may not support sorting.
  
  
  ALV Configuration: The ALV grid may have been configured in a way that restricts sorting on specific columns.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Choose Another Column: The simplest solution is to select a different column that is known to be sortable. Check the column headers for any indicators that suggest sorting is available.
  
  
  Check ALV Configuration: If you have access to the ALV report's configuration, review the settings to ensure that the column you are trying to sort is marked as sortable. This may require changes in the ABAP code or ALV layout settings.
  
  
  Modify Data Structure: If you are developing or maintaining the ALV report, consider modifying the data structure to ensure that the columns you want to sort are sortable. This may involve changing the data type or ensuring that the field is part of the database table.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review the SAP documentation or help files related to ALV grid usage to understand the limitations and configurations for sorting.
  
  
  Contact Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide insights based on the specific context of your ALV report.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  ALV Grid Control: Understanding how the ALV grid control works can help in troubleshooting sorting issues. Familiarize yourself with the properties and methods available in the ALV framework.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the ALV grid and sorting functionality.
  
  
  User Training: If users frequently encounter this error, consider providing training on how to use the ALV grid effectively, including which columns are sortable.
  
  
  By addressing the underlying causes and applying the appropriate solutions, you should be able to resolve the PPEALV004 error in SAP.