How To Fix W8502 - Field restriction entered contains syntax errors

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W8 - Workflow: Expressions, data flow

• Message number: 502

• Message text: Field restriction entered contains syntax errors

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W8502 - Field restriction entered contains syntax errors ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W8502 - Field restriction entered contains syntax errors
  
  Cause:
  This warning message appears when a user enters a field restriction (selection criteria) in a selection screen or report that contains syntax errors. The system tries to interpret the restriction but finds invalid syntax, such as:
  
  Incorrect use of operators (e.g., =, <>, BETWEEN, IN, etc.)
  Missing or misplaced parentheses
  Invalid characters or incomplete expressions
  Incorrect use of wildcards or ranges
  Logical errors in the condition format
  
  This often happens in dynamic selection screens, variant entries, or when manually entering selection criteria in reports or transactions that allow complex field restrictions.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the Syntax of the Field Restriction:
  
  Review the entered restriction carefully.
  Ensure that operators and logical connectors are used correctly.
  Verify that parentheses are balanced and properly placed.
  Use valid values and formats expected by the field.
  
  
  
  Use the Help or F4 Help:
  
  Use the F4 help on the selection field to see valid input formats.
  Use the "Possible Entries" or "Value Help" to avoid typing errors.
  
  
  
  Simplify the Restriction:
  
  If the restriction is complex, try breaking it down into simpler parts.
  Test each part separately to identify the problematic syntax.
  
  
  
  Check for Special Characters:
  
  Remove or correct any special characters that are not allowed.
  Avoid using unsupported wildcards or symbols.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation or SAP Notes:
  
  Sometimes, specific fields have restrictions on the type of input allowed.
  Check SAP documentation or notes for field-specific syntax rules.
  
  
  
  Use Standard Selection Options:
  
  Instead of manually typing complex restrictions, use standard selection options like ranges, multiple selections, or exclusion lists.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Where it occurs:
  
  This message is common in selection screens of reports, transaction variants, or dynamic selections where users can enter complex selection criteria.
  
  
  SAP Notes:
  
  If the problem persists despite correct syntax, check SAP Notes for known issues related to the specific transaction or report.
  
  
  Example of Correct Syntax:  
  
  Single value: 1000  
  Range: 1000 TO 2000  
  Multiple values: 1000, 2000, 3000  
  Exclusion: <>1000  
  Wildcard (if supported): 100*
  
  
  
  Example of Incorrect Syntax:  
  
  1000 TO (incomplete range)  
  1000 AND (incomplete logical expression)  
  1000 OR (2000 (unbalanced parentheses)
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact field restriction you entered, I can help identify the syntax error more precisely.