Learn ABAP with Real Code Examples

ABAP runs natively on SAP NetWeaver Application Server (AS ABAP) and integrates tightly with SAP databases and modules.

Supports procedural and object-oriented programming paradigms.

Used to develop custom SAP reports, enhancements, workflows, interfaces, and forms.

Data Dictionary (DDIC) integration

Reports and ALV grid display

Function modules, classes, and methods

Internal tables and work areas

Batch and background job scheduling

Data Dictionary objects: tables, views, domains

Reports and module pools

Internal tables and work areas

ABAP Objects (classes and methods)

Function modules, BAPIs, and RFCs

Programs (reports, module pools)

Function modules and classes

Data Dictionary objects (tables, domains, types)

SmartForms or Adobe Forms

Workflows and background jobs

Design report or program

Develop using SE80 or ADT

Test with sample SAP data

Debug using SAP debugger

Transport changes to QA and Production systems

Beginner: basic reports and loops

Intermediate: internal tables, ALV reports

Advanced: BAPI/RFC integrations, OO programming

Expert: workflow automation, SAP Fiori integration

Tied to SAP vs general-purpose languages

Strong ERP integration vs general DB access

Supports procedural & OO paradigms

Slower than compiled languages outside SAP

Rich standard library of SAP modules

1980s – ABAP development for R/2 systems

1992 – R/3 releases with expanded ABAP

2000s – Integration with NetWeaver AS ABAP

2010s – ABAP Objects and OO enhancements

2020s – SAP S/4HANA optimized ABAP (Core Data Services, ADT)

ALV: ABAP List Viewer

BAPI: Business Application Programming Interface

IDoc: Intermediate Document

RFC: Remote Function Call

DDIC: Data Dictionary