Error codes are quite common when surfing online. Though the code seems complicated, it often requires a simple solution. One such code is HTTP 422. Also called Unprocessable Entity, this code indicates an error with the entered information.
In this blog, we’ll understand the error code HTTP 422 and how to fix it.
What is the HTTP 422 Status Code?
HTTP 422 is a status code. The code signifies that the request syntax is accurate; however, the request has semantic errors. Simply put, it is a situation where the input data is correct but still not valid for the required format.
Such an error belongs to the user side and is commonly associated with form data and API requests.
Why does HTTP 422 occur?
There are multiple reasons why a system can show this error. Some of the most common factors are:
Missing Required Data
If a form has any empty fields that are required to be completed, the server can’t process the data.
Invalid Data Format
The error is caused when an invalid data format is entered into the server. For example, Numbers are added to a field where letters are expected.
Business Rule Violation
Some servers have rules for data. For instance, a date of birth cannot be in the future. Sending invalid data will cause 422.
JSON Validation Errors
APIs often use JSON or JavaScript Object Notation. If the JSON is invalid or missing keys, the server can show the error code.
File Upload Issues
Some servers check files for type or size. If the uploaded file does not meet the requirements, you can see 422.
How to Identify HTTP 422?
To identify an HTTP 422 error code, you must try the following steps.
-
Look at the browser console. Modern browsers show network errors.
-
Check API responses if you are using an app or software. Many APIs show what error correction is required. For example, forms can show - email required.
-
You can always use a tool to test your requests on the server. Popular tools are Postman or URL.
How to Fix HTTP 422?
Every HTTP 422 error code needs to be fixed depending on what caused the error. Here is how you can fix your data code errors.
Check Required Fields
Make sure you only fill in valid values in your data fields.
Validate Data Format
The server expects data in a specific format. Make sure your data matches it.
Follow Business Rules
Some applications have rules for values.
Make sure your data follows all such rules.
Check JSON Structure
Always cross-check your data before submission.
-
Use online tools to validate your JSON.
-
Ensure the presence of required keys.
-
Add a valid data type to the server only.
File Upload Validation
If the server expects a file, check:
Debug Server Response
Read the server response carefully.
-
Many APIs return a message that explains the error.
-
Use that message to fix your request.
-
For example, “Username already exists” tells you to pick another username.
How to Avoid HTTP 422 Error
Here is how users can avoid small HTTP errors.
- Use Frontend Validation
Make sure to validate your data before submitting it. This reduces the chances of errors.
- Test API Requests
Use tools to check your API requests before coding.
- Follow Documentation
Read the API or server documentation carefully. Know what the server expects.
- Handle Errors Gracefully
Show friendly error messages to users when data is invalid. Do not just display 422.
- Use Consistent Data Formats
Always use the correct format accepted by the server.
Difference Between Error 400 and 422
Every error code indicates a unique issue with the data:
- Error 400
It is a syntactic error. The code is shown when the data entered is incorrect for the server. It is often termed as a bad request error.
- Error 422
It is a semantic error. The code is shown when the data entered is correct, but invalid for the server.
Common HTTP 422 Error Scenarios
Some common error case scenarios are as follows:
- Form Submission Errors
Online forms are missing required fields like name or email.
- API Data Errors
It's caused by sending the wrong data format.
- User Registration Issues
Duplicate usernames or invalid passwords may cause 422.
- Payment Errors
Sending invalid card details or missing billing information.
- File Upload Problems
Uploading a large file or an unsupported file type.
