When working in one of the forms-based user interfaces (such as Query-By-Forms (QBF) or the forms-based Terminal Monitor), error messages appear on a single line across the bottom of your terminal screen. The text appears first, followed by the error code. If the text is longer than one line, press the Help key to see the rest of the message. To clear the error message from the screen, press the Return key.

When not working in a forms-based user interface, the DBMS displays the error code followed by the entire message text.

If an SQLCA is included in an embedded SQL application, automatic display of error messages is disabled. Program code that displays errors must be provided.