DF199: Old-style TOP clause is used.

Last modified: May 28, 2025

The topic describes the DF199 T-SQL code analysis rule.

Category

DEPRECATED

Message

Old-style TOP clause is used.

Description

It is recommended to use the updated TOP clause syntax, which includes parentheses around the expression, as this enhances clarity.

Noncompliant code example

SELECT TOP 100 id, txt FROM dbo.demotable ORDER BY id
GO

Compliant solution

SELECT TOP (100) id, txt FROM dbo.demotable ORDER BY id
GO