sbatch: error: invalid directive found in batch script: 16

Daniel Parker

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01-03-2025

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The error message "SBATCH: error: invalid directive found in batch script: 16" in Slurm (Simple Linux Utility for Resource Management) indicates a problem within your Slurm batch script (typically a .sbatch file). Line 16 contains a directive that Slurm doesn't recognize or is improperly formatted. This article will guide you through troubleshooting and resolving this common issue.

Understanding the Error

Slurm uses directives (lines starting with #SBATCH) to specify job parameters like the number of cores, memory, runtime, and output file locations. The "invalid directive found in batch script: 16" error points directly to line 16 of your .sbatch file. Slurm encountered something on that line it doesn't understand as a valid directive.

Common Causes and Solutions

Several factors can trigger this error. Let's explore the most frequent causes and how to address them:

1. Typos and Misspellings

The most common reason is a simple typo in a directive name. Slurm is case-sensitive. For example, #SBATCH --ntasks is correct, but #SBATCH --NTASKS or #SBATCH --nTasks will cause an error.

• Solution: Carefully review line 16 of your .sbatch script. Double-check the spelling of the directive against the official Slurm documentation. Commonly misspelled directives include --ntasks, --cpus-per-task, --mem, --time.

2. Incorrect Syntax

Even with correct spelling, incorrect syntax can lead to errors. Each directive has a specific format. For instance, --time expects a time format (e.g., #SBATCH --time=00:30:00 for 30 minutes). Missing or extra spaces, incorrect separators, or using the wrong data type can all lead to problems.

• Solution: Refer to the Slurm documentation for the correct syntax of the directive on line 16. Pay close attention to required arguments, acceptable data types, and the use of spaces and separators.

3. Unsupported or Deprecated Directives

Slurm versions evolve. A directive that worked in an older version might be unsupported or deprecated in your current version.

• Solution: Check your Slurm version using scontrol show version. Consult the Slurm documentation for your specific version to ensure the directive on line 16 is supported. If it's deprecated, find the recommended replacement.

4. Extra or Missing Spaces

Unnecessary spaces or missing spaces around the = sign in a directive can also cause problems.

• Solution: Ensure there's one space before and after the = in the directive. For example, #SBATCH --time=00:30:00 is correct.

5. Incorrect use of #SBATCH

Make sure the line starts with #SBATCH and has a single space after it, followed by the directive.

• Solution: Check your line 16 to ensure it adheres to the #SBATCH directive format.

6. Comments within Directives

Including comments within a Slurm directive is usually not allowed.

• Solution: Move comments to a separate line.

Debugging Steps

1. Print the problematic line: Simply print line 16 to the console to see exactly what's there.
2. Check the Slurm documentation: Find the correct syntax for all directives in your script.
3. Simplify the script: Create a minimal .sbatch file containing only the problematic line (and any necessary dependencies) to isolate the issue.
4. Consult system administrators: If you're still stuck, contact your system administrators. They can help diagnose issues related to your Slurm installation or configuration.

Example of a Corrected Script

Let's say line 16 originally looked like this (incorrect):

#SBATCH --time00:30:00

The corrected version would be:

#SBATCH --time=00:30:00 

By carefully reviewing line 16 and following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "SBATCH: error: invalid directive found in batch script: 16" error and successfully run your Slurm jobs. Remember to always consult the official Slurm documentation for the most accurate and up-to-date information.