How To Fix WD285 - Element '&' is appended to multiline element '&'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WD - Workflow definition

• Message number: 285

• Message text: Element '&' is appended to multiline element '&'

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WD285 - Element '&' is appended to multiline element '&' ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WD285 Element '&' is appended to multiline element '&'
  
  Cause
  This error occurs in Web Dynpro ABAP when you try to append an element to a multiline UI element (like a multiline text field or textarea) in a way that is not allowed or incorrectly handled.
  Specifically, the message indicates that an element (e.g., a string or UI element) is being appended to a multiline element, but the framework expects a different handling or the operation is not supported as performed.
  Common scenarios causing this error:
  
  Attempting to append a single-line string or element directly to a multiline UI element without proper concatenation or formatting.
  Misuse of UI element methods or properties when dealing with multiline text fields.
  Incorrect binding or manipulation of multiline elements in the Web Dynpro context.
  
  
  Solution
  
  
  Check the UI element type:
  
  Verify that the target element is indeed multiline (e.g., a textarea or multiline text field).
  Ensure that you are not trying to append a single-line element directly.
  
  
  
  Properly concatenate strings before assigning:
  
  Instead of appending elements directly to the multiline UI element, concatenate the strings in the backend or controller and then assign the full string to the multiline element.
  For example, build the multiline string in an internal variable and then set it once to the UI element.
  
  
  
  Use correct methods for multiline elements:
  
  Use appropriate APIs or methods designed for multiline text manipulation.
  Avoid using append operations that are meant for single-line elements.
  
  
  
  Check the context binding:
  
  If the multiline element is bound to a context attribute, ensure that the attribute is updated properly with the concatenated string.
  Refresh the UI element after updating the context attribute.
  
  
  
  Debug and trace:
  
  Use the debugger to check the values and types of elements being appended.
  Confirm that the operation matches the expected data types and UI element capabilities.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  
  Web Dynpro ABAP UI elements:
  
  Multiline elements like TEXT_VIEW or TEXT_AREA require special handling for text content.
  
  
  String concatenation in ABAP:
  
  Use CONCATENATE or string templates to build multiline strings before assigning.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation:
  
  Check SAP Notes or the official SAP Help Portal for any updates or patches related to Web Dynpro UI element handling.
  
  
  Example:
  
  
  DATA: lv_multiline_text TYPE string.
  
  lv_multiline_text = 'Line 1' && cl_abap_char_utilities=>newline && 'Line 2'.
  
  " Assign concatenated string to multiline UI element context attribute
  wd_context->set_attribute( name = 'MultilineText' value = lv_multiline_text ).
  
  If you provide the exact code snippet or scenario where this error occurs, I can help you with a more precise solution.