What is SQL tuning?

What is SQL tuning?

SQL tuning is the process of ensuring that the SQL statements that an application will issue will run in the fastest possible time. Just like there may be ten different ways for you to drive from work to your house, there may be ten different ways to execute a query. Normally, you are in a hurry to get home so you take the fastest way. Once in a while, you may find a new way that is even faster. You didn't consider this route before because it was not very intuitive. SQL tuning is similar. Tuning SQL statements is finding the fastest route to answer your question, even if that route is not very intuitive.

There are a few books on the subject. First, I'd recommend reading the "Oracle 8i Performance Tuning Guide". Then I'd suggest "Oracle Performance Tuning" by Guy Harrison.

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