How to Fix psycopg2.errors.InvalidTextRepresentation Error in PostgreSQL

Learn how to resolve the common `InvalidTextRepresentation` error when working with boolean inputs in PostgreSQL using psycopg2.
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In this guide, we will break down this error, explain why it occurs, and provide clear steps to resolve it effectively.

What Does the Error Mean?

The error message suggests that there is an invalid input syntax for a boolean type in your SQL command. In simpler terms, it means that the data you are trying to insert or query is not in the expected format, and PostgreSQL is unable to interpret it correctly.

Example Scenario

Let's consider the SQL command you are trying to execute:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Here, it's easy to spot the problem area: the inclusion of mixed data types, specifically using the true boolean value alongside string entries in an array.

Why Does This Happen?

PostgreSQL requires that all elements in an array must be of the same data type. When you attempt to combine a boolean (true) with strings (like 'ap1-node1'), it causes a type mismatch. Essentially, PostgreSQL just cannot reconcile the two different data types in the same array and throws an error.

Example of the Error

For instance, if you try running:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

You will receive the error:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

However, if you modify it to:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

It works perfectly:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

How to Fix the Error

1. Ensure Uniform Data Types in Arrays

The first step in resolving this issue is to make sure that all elements in your arrays are of the same data type. For boolean values, you can use one of the following approaches:

Change true to its string representation: 'true'

Change true to short representation: 't'

Updated SQL Command

Modify your original SQL command by ensuring uniform types in the array like so:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

2. Consider Database Design

Another possible improvement is to consider whether using hstore as part of the JSON data structure is the best design choice. It may be beneficial to create a separate child table for the complex data instead. This way, you can maintain clarity in your database relationships and avoid such type conflicts.

Conclusion