In SAP ABAP Dictionary (transaction SE11), what is the general sequence of steps to create and activate a new transparent table?

Introduction / Context:
Creating transparent tables in the ABAP Dictionary is a fundamental task for SAP technical consultants. A typical interview question asks for the step by step process in transaction SE11 to test whether the candidate really understands how dictionary objects are defined and activated. Knowing the correct sequence ensures that tables are created with proper fields, keys, and technical settings so that they work correctly in the database and in ABAP programs.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question refers to transparent tables created in the ABAP Dictionary using SE11.
• The candidate is expected to know basic dictionary concepts such as fields, data elements, technical settings, and activation.
• We assume that the database integration is handled automatically once the dictionary object is activated.
• The options present different sequences, and only one matches the standard process.

Concept / Approach:
The correct process to create a transparent table starts in SE11 with the Database table option. After entering a name for the new table and choosing Create, you define the field list, including key fields and data types. Where possible, fields reference data elements so that types and descriptions are reusable. Then you maintain technical settings such as data class and size category, and specify delivery and maintenance attributes. Once these details are complete, you save and activate the table, which triggers creation of the physical table in the underlying database.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Start transaction SE11 and select the Database table radio button. Step 2: Enter a new table name that follows naming conventions, for example starting with Z or Y in customer namespaces, and choose Create. Step 3: On the Attributes tab, enter a short description and choose the table type Transparent table. Step 4: On the Fields tab, insert field names, choose data elements or data types, mark key fields, and maintain technical attributes such as field length where required. Step 5: Use the Technical settings dialog to set data class and size category, and maintain delivery class and table maintenance settings on the appropriate tabs. Step 6: Save the table in a transport request and activate it, which creates the corresponding table in the database and makes it available to ABAP programs.

Verification / Alternative check:
If you follow option a in a real SAP system, SE11 will create and activate the table correctly and you will see it in database utilities such as SE14. Attempts to follow options b, c, or d will either not create any table or will lead to different types of objects. SE38 and SE80 are used for programs and development objects, not for defining transparent tables directly, which confirms that these options are incorrect as complete sequences.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option b is wrong because writing and activating an ABAP report does not automatically create arbitrary database tables; tables must be defined in the dictionary. Option c only defines a data element, not a table structure with multiple fields and keys. Option d describes creating function modules, which is unrelated to dictionary table creation and would not result in a table defined in SE11.

Common Pitfalls:
A frequent mistake is to forget technical settings or to choose inappropriate data classes and size categories, which can cause performance or storage problems. Another pitfall is defining fields with direct types instead of reusable data elements, which makes later changes harder. Remembering the proper sequence from SE11 through activation helps ensure that tables are well designed and consistent across development, quality, and production systems.

Final Answer:
Start SE11, choose Database table, enter the table name and choose Create, define fields and key with data elements or types, maintain technical settings and delivery class, then save and activate the table.