How To Fix PT009 - Format "&" not suitable for &2 lines

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PT - Messages for ABAP print functions

• Message number: 009

• Message text: Format "&" not suitable for &2 lines

What causes this issue?

Each format has a maximum number of lines. The number of lines for the
chosen format is smaller than the current number of lines per page. The
format is therefore invalid.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Either choose a different format or increase the number of lines.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PT009 - Format "&" not suitable for &2 lines ?

  The SAP error message PT009, which states "Format '&' not suitable for &2 lines," typically occurs in the context of SAP's time management or personnel administration modules. This error indicates that there is a mismatch between the expected format of a time or personnel data entry and the actual data being processed.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Format Specification: The format specified for the data entry does not match the number of lines or the type of data being processed. For example, if a report or a data entry field expects a certain format (like a single line of text) but receives multiple lines, this error can occur.
  Data Entry Issues: If the data being entered into the system contains line breaks or is formatted in a way that is not compatible with the expected input, this can trigger the error.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the SAP system that define how data should be formatted, and if these settings are not aligned with the data being processed, it can lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Data Format: Review the data being entered to ensure it adheres to the expected format. If the system expects a single line of text, ensure that there are no line breaks or additional formatting.
  Adjust Configuration: If you have access to the configuration settings, check the format settings for the relevant data entry fields or reports. Ensure that they are set up to handle the type of data you are trying to input.
  Data Cleansing: If the data is being imported from an external source, ensure that it is cleansed and formatted correctly before importing it into SAP.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the expected formats for the data you are working with.
  Contact Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide more tailored assistance based on your specific configuration and use case.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the PT009 error. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help in troubleshooting or adjusting configurations (e.g., PA30 for personnel administration).
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the PT009 error and implement a suitable solution.