How To Fix SDDL_PARSER_MSG042 - Select * and GROUP BY are not valid together

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SDDL_PARSER_MSG - Message Class for DDL Parser

• Message number: 042

• Message text: Select * and GROUP BY 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_MSG042 - Select * and GROUP BY are not valid together ?

  The SAP error message SDDL_PARSER_MSG042 indicates that there is an issue with the SQL query being executed, specifically when using SELECT * in conjunction with a GROUP BY clause. In SQL, when you use GROUP BY, you need to specify the columns that you want to group by, and you cannot use SELECT * because it does not provide a clear definition of how to aggregate the other columns.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because:
  
  The SQL query is attempting to select all columns (SELECT *) while also trying to group the results by one or more columns.
  SQL requires that all selected columns that are not part of an aggregate function must be included in the GROUP BY clause.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to modify your SQL query. Here are the steps you can take:
  
  
  Specify Columns Explicitly: Instead of using SELECT *, explicitly list the columns you want to retrieve. For example:
  SELECT column1, column2, SUM(column3)
  FROM your_table
  GROUP BY column1, column2;
  
  
  Use Aggregate Functions: Ensure that any columns not included in the GROUP BY clause are wrapped in an aggregate function (like SUM, COUNT, AVG, etc.).
  
  
  Review the Query Logic: Make sure that the logic of your query aligns with your data retrieval needs. If you need all columns, consider whether you really need to group the data or if you can achieve your goal with a different query structure.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SQL Standards: This behavior is consistent with SQL standards, which require that all selected columns must either be included in the GROUP BY clause or be used in an aggregate function.
  Performance Considerations: Using SELECT * can lead to performance issues, especially with large tables, as it retrieves all columns. It's generally a good practice to select only the columns you need.
  Testing Queries: When developing SQL queries, it can be helpful to test them incrementally. Start with a simple SELECT statement, then add GROUP BY and aggregate functions as needed.
  
  By following these guidelines, you should be able to resolve the error and construct a valid SQL query that meets your requirements.