ABAP (Advanced Business Application Programming) is a high-level programming language created by SAP. It is primarily used for developing business applications for SAPs enterprise software and is the main programming language for SAPs R/3 system.
ABAP Anti-Patterns Overview
ABAP, despite being a powerful language for SAP development, has several common anti-patterns that can lead to performance issues, maintainability problems, and bugs. Here are the most important anti-patterns to avoid when writing ABAP code.
SELECT * FROM Database Tables
Avoid using SELECT *
to retrieve all fields from database tables. This increases network traffic, memory usage, and processing time. Instead, explicitly list only the fields you need for your application logic.
Not Using WHERE Clause in Database Queries
Always use appropriate WHERE clauses in your database queries to filter data at the database level. Retrieving all records and then filtering them in ABAP is inefficient, especially for large tables.
Using SELECT Inside Loops
Avoid executing database queries inside loops. This can lead to the “N+1 query problem” and severely impact performance. Instead, use JOINs, nested SELECTs, or FOR ALL ENTRIES to retrieve related data in a single query.
Not Using Internal Tables Effectively
Use internal tables efficiently. Avoid operations like APPEND inside loops for large datasets. Instead, use APPEND INITIAL LINE with field symbols, table expressions, or modern ABAP constructs like VALUE operator for better performance.
Excessive Use of Global Variables
Avoid excessive use of global variables. They create hidden dependencies between procedures, make code harder to test and maintain, and can lead to unexpected behavior. Instead, pass parameters between procedures and use local variables when possible.
Not Using ABAP Objects
Use ABAP Objects (classes and interfaces) for complex applications instead of procedural programming with FORM routines. Object-oriented programming provides better encapsulation, reusability, and maintainability.
Hardcoding Values
Avoid hardcoding values in your code. Use constants, configuration tables, or customizing settings instead. This makes your code more maintainable and adaptable to different environments or requirements.
Not Using Proper Exception Handling
Use proper exception handling in your code. Catch specific exceptions rather than generic ones, and handle them appropriately. Use class-based exceptions (CX_* classes) for better error information and propagation.
Not Using Modern ABAP Syntax
Use modern ABAP syntax features like inline declarations, string templates, table expressions, and field symbols. Modern syntax is often more concise, readable, and can improve performance.
Inefficient String Handling
Use efficient string handling techniques. Avoid repeated CONCATENATE operations in loops. Instead, collect strings in a table and concatenate them at once, or use string templates (|…|) for simple concatenations.
Not Using Code Inspector and ATC
Always use Code Inspector and ABAP Test Cockpit (ATC) to check your code for performance issues, security vulnerabilities, and adherence to coding standards. These tools can identify many common anti-patterns automatically.
Not Using Proper Authorization Checks
Not Using Proper Modularization
Break down large, monolithic methods into smaller, focused methods with clear responsibilities. Each method should do one thing well. This improves readability, maintainability, and testability of your code.
Not Using SAP Standard Code
Leverage SAP standard functionality instead of reinventing the wheel. SAP provides many standard function modules, classes, and APIs for common tasks. Using them ensures consistency, reduces bugs, and saves development time.
Not Using Proper Naming Conventions
Follow proper naming conventions for variables, methods, and classes. Use prefixes to indicate variable scope and type (e.g., lv_ for local variables, lt_ for local tables). Use descriptive names that clearly indicate the purpose of the entity.
Not Using ABAP Unit Tests
Write ABAP Unit tests for your code. Unit tests help catch bugs early, document expected behavior, and make it safer to refactor code. Follow test-driven development (TDD) principles when possible.
Not Considering Performance in Loops
Be mindful of performance in loops. Avoid database access, screen operations, and complex calculations inside loops. Pre-fetch data, use efficient internal table operations, and consider alternatives to nested loops.
Not Using Data Dictionary Objects
Use data dictionary objects (tables, structures, data elements) instead of defining types locally. This ensures consistency across applications, enables central changes, and leverages SAP’s metadata capabilities.