Keyword Types in SAP ABAP
SAP ABAP keywords can be categorized into several types based on their functionality and purpose within the code. Let’s look at the categories:
Declarative Keywords
Declarative keywords are mostly used to specify data types, variables, and constants that make up the program’s structure. By allowing programmers to specify the elements of their programs, they set up the remaining code.
Examples of declarative keywords:
DATA for declaring variables
TYPES for defining custom data types
CONSTANTS for defining constants.
Modularization Keywords
Modularization keywords are crucial for structuring the program into smaller, reusable components. These keywords aid in the creation of methods, functions, and subroutines that the program’s various sections can call.
Examples of Modularization keywords :
FORM.... ENDFORM for creating subroutines,
FUNCTION..........ENDFUNCTION for defining reusable functions,
METHOD for encapsulating code within objects,
MODULE.........ENDMODULE for module declarations.
Event Keywords
Event keywords are used for defining event blocks, it does not contain any termination.
AT SELECTION SCREEN
START-OF-SELECTION
AT USER-COMMAND
Control Keywords
Control keywords are used to manage the flow of the program. They enable developers to make decisions, create loops, and handle exceptions, ensuring that the program executes as intended.
Examples of control keywords :
IF for conditional branching,
LOOP for creating loops, and
TRY and CATCH for handling exceptions.
CALL Keyword
The CALL keyword is used to call other ABAP programs or functions within the current program. It allows for the execution of external code units, facilitating modularization and code reuse.
Example of CALL keyword:
PERFORM
CALL
SET USER-COMMAND
SUBMIT
LEAVE TO
Operational keywords are responsible for performing various operations, such as mathematical calculations, string manipulation, and data transformation. They are essential for data processing and manipulation within the program.
Example of operational keywords :
ADD and SUBTRACT for arithmetic operations,
CONCATENATE for string concatenation,and
MOVE for data assignment.
Database Keywords
Database keywords are crucial when interacting with the underlying database. They allow developers to fetch, modify, or insert data in database tables. These keywords bridge the gap between the application and the data stored in the SAP system.
Examples of database keywords:
SELECT for querying data,
UPDATE for modifying records,
INSERT for adding new data.
SAP ABAP Keywords
The core of many global enterprises, SAP ABAP stands for Advanced Business Application Programming. It is the heart and soul of SAP systems. It gives users the ability to expand and modify SAP apps to satisfy particular business needs. The fundamental building blocks of SAP ABAP are its keywords, which are used to create programs that are reliable and effective. We will delve into the world of SAP ABAP keywords in this article, examining their different forms and functions in the creation of SAP applications.