Sbatch Error: Invalid Directive

2 min read 09-11-2024

The "Sbatch Error: Invalid Directive" is a common issue encountered when submitting jobs to a Slurm workload manager. This error indicates that there is an issue with one or more of the directives specified in the job script. Below, we will explore the potential causes of this error and how to resolve it.

Understanding Sbatch Directives

Sbatch is a command used to submit batch jobs to a Slurm queue. A batch script typically begins with a series of directives that specify job parameters. These directives usually start with #SBATCH, followed by specific options.

Common Directives

Some commonly used #SBATCH directives include:

#SBATCH --job-name=job_name - Set the name of the job.
#SBATCH --output=output_file - Redirect the standard output to a file.
#SBATCH --error=error_file - Redirect the error output to a file.
#SBATCH --time=hh:mm:ss - Specify the time limit for the job.
#SBATCH --partition=partition_name - Specify which partition to submit the job to.

Causes of Invalid Directive Error

There are several reasons you might encounter the "Invalid Directive" error:

1. Typographical Errors

Check for any typos in the directive syntax. For example, make sure you are using #SBATCH, not #SBAHT or any other variations.

2. Incorrect Options

Ensure that the options you are using are valid for your Slurm setup. Consult the Slurm documentation or your system administrator to verify valid options.

3. Misplaced Directives

Directives must be placed at the beginning of the script, before any executable commands. Ensure that your #SBATCH directives are at the top of the script.

4. Compatibility Issues

Certain directives may not be supported in specific versions of Slurm. Check the version of Slurm installed on your system and refer to the appropriate documentation.

Troubleshooting Steps

To resolve the "Invalid Directive" error, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Review Your Job Script

Carefully review your job script for any typographical errors or misplaced directives.

2. Validate Directives

Cross-check the directives used in your script against the Slurm documentation to ensure they are valid and correctly formatted.

3. Test with Minimal Script

Create a minimal script with just one #SBATCH directive and gradually add other directives to identify which one is causing the error.

4. Consult Documentation

Refer to the official Slurm documentation or any specific guidelines provided by your computing environment.

5. Contact Support

If you continue to face issues, consider reaching out to your system administrator or support team for further assistance.

Conclusion

Encountering an "Sbatch Error: Invalid Directive" can be frustrating, but by understanding the potential causes and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can effectively resolve the issue. Always ensure that your job scripts are well-formatted and adhere to the directives supported by your specific Slurm configuration.