SAP reference · LessonBy Arjun, SAP Solution Architect · Published · SAP S/4HANA 2023 · all levels
Methods
Methods are the operations of ABAP classes, the callable units of behaviour. This reference explains methods and how to understand a class’s method interface.
Quick answer
Understanding a method’s interface, its inputs, output and exceptions, is how you correctly call SAP and custom classes.
Key takeaways
- A method is a named operation on a class, with parameters (importing/exporting/changing/returning) and possible exceptions…
- View a class’s methods in SE24/ADT.
- Read each method’s parameters and exceptions to understand how to call it.
- Watch out: Guessing instead of using the reference tools.
What it is
A method is a named operation on a class, with parameters (importing/exporting/changing/returning) and possible exceptions (raising). Calling a method invokes that behaviour; RETURNING methods enable clean functional-style calls.
How to find/use it
- View a class’s methods in SE24/ADT.
- Read each method’s parameters and exceptions to understand how to call it.
- Prefer RETURNING for single results; check RAISING for error handling.
- Look for documented/released methods on public APIs.
Why it matters
Understanding a method’s interface, its inputs, output and exceptions, is how you correctly call SAP and custom classes. Well-designed methods (small, single-purpose, clear parameters) make code readable and reusable.
Common pitfalls
- Guessing instead of using the reference tools.
- Editing/using without understanding the object.
- Relying on memory for details you can look up.
Practice challenge
+0 XPStreak ×0
Question 1 of 3
Which statement is true of Methods?
Frequently asked questions
What does Methods mean in the ABAP reference?
Methods are the operations of ABAP classes, the callable units of behaviour. This reference explains methods and how to understand a class’s method interface.
What should you remember about Methods when working in the ABAP reference?
Understanding a method’s interface, its inputs, output and exceptions, is how you correctly call SAP and custom classes.
What is another point to note about Methods?
A method is a named operation on a class, with parameters (importing/exporting/changing/returning) and possible exceptions (raising).
What tends to go wrong with Methods in the ABAP reference?
Guessing instead of using the reference tools. Editing/using without understanding the object. Relying on memory for details you can look up.