[Solved] You wrote this dbt model but it fails with a compilation error. What is the likely cause? WITH base AS ( SELECT * FROM ref('orders') ) SELECT * FROM base | dbt

dbt - Advanced Patterns

You wrote this dbt model but it fails with a compilation error. What is the likely cause?

WITH base AS (
  SELECT *
  FROM ref('orders')
)
SELECT * FROM base

AMissing curly braces around ref function

BIncorrect CTE name 'base'

CSELECT * is not allowed in dbt models

DMissing GROUP BY clause

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Check the usage of ref() in the CTE
The ref function must be wrapped in double curly braces like {{ ref('orders') }} to be recognized by dbt.
Step 2: Identify the error cause
Without curly braces, dbt treats ref('orders') as plain text, causing a compilation error.
Final Answer:
Missing curly braces around ref function -> Option A
Quick Check:
Always use {{ ref() }} with curly braces = A [OK]

Quick Trick: Always wrap ref() in {{ }} in dbt SQL [OK]

Common Mistakes:

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