Difference between field symbols and data references in SAP ABAP

Field symbols and data references are both important concepts in SAP ABAP programming. Here is the difference between them:

Field symbols:

Field symbols are placeholders or pointers that allow you to indirectly access data objects in memory. They are created using the FIELD-SYMBOLS statement and are mainly used for dynamic data processing and manipulation.

Data references:

Data references are like pointers to data objects in memory and are created using the TYPES statement with REF TO keyword. Data references are static and need to be declared with specific data types. They are commonly used for passing data between different programs or function modules.

In summary, field symbols are more flexible and dynamic in nature as compared to data references, which are more static and require specifying a data type. Both field symbols and data references are essential tools in SAP ABAP programming for efficient data handling.