In Oracle, if you want to view an execution plan for a query, you use the DBMS_XPLAN.DISPLAY_CURSOR() procedure. NOTE: The execution plan is totally different than an explain plan; don’t confuse these two. The easiest way to get an execution… Read More
How to Get Row Source Statistics In Oracle
One great way to get time analysis information for a query in Oracle is to use row source statistics. Not everyone has the tuning and diagnostic pack, meaning not everyone can generate SQL Monitor reports. Row source statistics serves as… Read More
Index Range Scan vs. Leading Wildcard
Can you use an index range scan with a LIKE if you have a leading wildcard in your expression? e.g. Most people would say “no” but, I actually found a way to “trick” Oracle into doing so using bind variables,… Read More
When to Use APPROX_COUNT_DISTINCT
Since Oracle 12.1, users have had the ability to use the APPROX_COUNT_DISTINCT() function. This function is supposed to be significantly faster than a COUNT(DISTINCT …). Does it really offer that big of a payout? Let’s see: First, let’s make a… Read More
What is Cost? How Can I Use It to Tune SQL?
When most people first start learning to tune SQL, they develop a fascination with this mysterious column on the execution plan called “cost.” What is cost? And how can you use it to tune SQL? So here’s, high level, what… Read More