How To Fix SIT2_DESIGN_TIME033 - Enter a description with up to 255 characters. A variable counts as 4.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SIT2_DESIGN_TIME - Situation Handling Design Time Messages

• Message number: 033

• Message text: Enter a description with up to 255 characters. A variable counts as 4.

Each variable that you enter, regardless of its length, is counted as 4
characters.
&Example&
The GR/IR account reconciliation scenario deals with purchase orders
which have differences in quantities and amounts between the posted
deliveries and invoices. Please clarify and resolve any discrepancies.
207 characters -> No error message

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

High Deviation in GR/IR Reconciliation. The differences of items on the
GR/IR account for purchasing document {PURCHASINGDOCUMENT} item
{PURCHASINGDOCUMENTITEM} exceeds the threshold and needs immediate
action. Please help to clarify and resolve this discrepancy.
217 characters + 2 variables at 4 characters each (=8) = 225 characters
-> No error message
The GR/IR account reconciliation scenario deals with purchase orders
which have differences in quantities and amounts between the posted
deliveries and invoices. You have been assigned for GR/IR account
reconciliation for purchasing document {PURCHASINGDOCUMENT} item
{PURCHASINGDOCUMENTITEM}.
248 characters + 2 variables at 4 characters each (=8) = 256 -> Error
message
&Procedure&
Please enter a description with 255 characters or less.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SIT2_DESIGN_TIME033 - Enter a description with up to 255 characters. A variable counts as 4. ?

  The SAP error message SIT2_DESIGN_TIME033 indicates that there is an issue with the length of a description field in a particular transaction or application. Specifically, the error states that the description must be limited to 255 characters, and it mentions that a variable counts as 4 characters. This typically occurs when you are trying to enter a description that exceeds the allowed character limit.
  Cause:
  
  Exceeding Character Limit: The most common cause of this error is that the description you are trying to enter exceeds the maximum allowed length of 255 characters.
  Variable Count: The message indicates that certain variables or placeholders in your description count as 4 characters each, which can lead to exceeding the limit if not accounted for.
  
  Solution:
  
  Shorten the Description: Review the description you are trying to enter and ensure that it does not exceed 255 characters. If it does, shorten it by removing unnecessary words or phrases.
  Count Variables: If your description includes variables, count them as 4 characters each and adjust your text accordingly to ensure the total length does not exceed the limit.
  Use Abbreviations: If possible, use abbreviations or shorthand to convey the same information in fewer characters.
  Check for Hidden Characters: Sometimes, hidden characters or formatting can increase the character count. Ensure that there are no extra spaces or hidden characters in your description.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal or documentation specific to the module you are working with for more details on character limits and best practices for entering descriptions.
  SAP Community: You can also check forums and community discussions for similar issues and solutions shared by other SAP users.
  Transaction Codes: If you are encountering this error in a specific transaction, make sure to check the transaction's guidelines for entering descriptions.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.