How To Fix SDDL_PARSER_MSG040 - Select * and joins are not valid together

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SDDL_PARSER_MSG - Message Class for DDL Parser

• Message number: 040

• Message text: Select * and joins are not valid together

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SDDL_PARSER_MSG040 - Select * and joins are not valid together ?

  The SAP error message SDDL_PARSER_MSG040 indicates that there is an issue with the SQL query being executed, specifically that the use of SELECT * in combination with joins is not valid. This error typically arises in the context of SAP HANA or other database systems that enforce strict SQL syntax rules.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because the SQL parser does not allow the use of SELECT * when there are joins in the query. This is likely due to ambiguity in the result set when multiple tables are joined, as SELECT * would attempt to retrieve all columns from all tables involved in the join, which can lead to conflicts or confusion regarding which columns to return.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should explicitly specify the columns you want to select from each table instead of using SELECT *. Here’s how you can modify your query:
  
  
  Identify the Tables and Columns: Determine which tables you are joining and which specific columns you need from each table.
  
  
  Rewrite the Query: Instead of using SELECT *, list the columns explicitly. For example:
  SELECT 
      table1.column1, 
      table1.column2, 
      table2.column1, 
      table2.column2
  FROM 
      table1
  JOIN 
      table2 ON table1.id = table2.foreign_id
  
  
  Test the Query: After modifying the query, run it again to ensure that it executes without errors.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Best Practices: It is generally a good practice to avoid using SELECT * in production queries, as it can lead to performance issues and makes the code less readable. Explicitly specifying columns improves clarity and can enhance performance by reducing the amount of data transferred.
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP HANA SQL Reference Guide or the documentation for the specific database you are using for more details on SQL syntax and best practices.
  
  
  Debugging: If you continue to encounter issues, consider breaking down complex queries into simpler parts or using temporary tables to isolate problems.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and improve the quality of your SQL queries in SAP.