How to diagnose and fix the 42P20 windowing_error error code in Postgres. 

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The 42P20 error code in PostgreSQL, known as windowing_error, is associated with issues related to window functions in SQL queries. Window functions are used to perform calculations across sets of rows that are related to the current row. Common problems that can lead to a windowing_error include incorrect window function usage, improper frame specification, or attempting to use window functions in contexts where they are not allowed. Here’s how you can diagnose and fix this error:

  1. Understand Window Functions: Familiarize yourself with how window functions work in PostgreSQL. Ensure you understand the OVER clause and how to define window frames.
  2. Check the OVER Clause: Verify that the OVER clause is written correctly and that it includes all required components, such as PARTITION BY and ORDER BY, if needed.
  3. Review Frame Specification: If you’re using frame specification (e.g., ROWS BETWEEN …), ensure that it is correct and logical. For example, a frame that specifies ‘ROWS BETWEEN 1 PRECEDING AND 1 FOLLOWING’ is valid, but ‘ROWS BETWEEN 1 FOLLOWING AND 1 PRECEDING’ is not because it specifies a frame with an end point that precedes its starting point.
  4. Verify Allowed Context: Make sure that the window function is used in a context where window functions are allowed. For example, window functions cannot be used in GROUP BY clauses or WHERE clauses.
  5. Consult PostgreSQL Documentation: The PostgreSQL documentation provides detailed information about window functions and their proper usage.

Here are some examples and sample code to illustrate potential scenarios:

  • Scenario 1: Incorrect OVER clause usage.
  -- Incorrect usage of window function without an OVER clause
  SELECT sum(column1) FROM my_table;

To fix this, add the OVER clause to the window function:

  -- Correct usage with an OVER clause
  SELECT sum(column1) OVER () FROM my_table;
  • Scenario 2: Logical error in frame specification.
  -- Incorrect frame specification with the end point before the start point
  SELECT sum(column1) OVER (ORDER BY column1 ROWS BETWEEN 1 FOLLOWING AND 1 PRECEDING) FROM my_table;

To fix this, specify a logical frame:

  -- Correct frame specification
  SELECT sum(column1) OVER (ORDER BY column1 ROWS BETWEEN 1 PRECEDING AND 1 FOLLOWING) FROM my_table;
  • Scenario 3: Using window functions in a GROUP BY clause.
  -- Incorrect use of window function in a GROUP BY clause
  SELECT column1, rank() OVER (ORDER BY column2) FROM my_table GROUP BY column1;

To fix this, remove the window function from the GROUP BY clause:

  -- Correct query without window function in GROUP BY
  SELECT column1, rank() OVER (ORDER BY column2) FROM my_table;

When diagnosing and fixing the 42P20 error code, it’s important to carefully review the query for correct usage of window functions and ensure that the OVER clause and any frame specifications are properly defined. If you continue to encounter issues after checking these aspects, seeking further assistance from the PostgreSQL community or a database professional may be helpful.

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