How do I fix 'Unexpected element “{}target” {antlib:org.apache.tools.ant}target' errors in my Ant build?

Question

When I run my Ant build it fails with the following exception:

Unexpected element \"{}target\" {antlib:org.apache.tools.ant}target

I\'m using E

Answer 1

I can reproduce this problem by putting a target outside the project element that is required in ant build files. The error indicates that there is a fault in your build file - something (a target element) in the wrong place.

This build throws that error:

Whereas this does not:

In the full error message you should get a line number to guide you to the point in the file needing attention:

#   line number here
#         v
build.xml:2: Unexpected element "{}target" {antlib:org.apache.tools.ant}target