Oracle Database / SQL & PL/SQL Errors
ORA-00979: align SELECT expressions with GROUP BY
A report can fail when a new selected expression is neither grouped nor aggregated. Review the query's intended grain rather than adding every column mechanically.
Environment and inputs: Oracle Database 19c baseline · SQL*Plus-compatible SQL unless RMAN, DGMGRL, ADRCI or a host shell is specified. Check release, patch level, edition and container first.
Start with this diagnostic
Use the stated SQL, RMAN, DGMGRL or host shell and replace sample names with approved targets. DBA and V$ views need authorized catalog access in the correct container. Do not grant broad privileges for an example.
SELECT column_name, data_type FROM all_tab_columns WHERE owner = 'APP_OWNER' AND table_name = 'APP_SALES';Read the result
Column metadata helps explain report dimensions but cannot determine the correct aggregation rule. The failing select expression must be compared with the grouped result.
Resolve and verify
Define what one report row represents, then group or aggregate each expression consistently. Validate totals against a small known dataset.
Operational precautions
Adding a column to GROUP BY can change row counts and business totals even when the SQL starts running.