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SQL_Optimizations

This document provides a beginner-friendly guide to optimizing SQL queries with essential tips such as using DISTINCT selectively, avoiding cursors, and leveraging indexes for faster lookups. It emphasizes the importance of using WHERE and HAVING appropriately, as well as the benefits of breaking down complex queries and analyzing execution plans. Additional tips include using EXISTS over IN, cautious use of LIKE, and considering partitioning for large tables.

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Sawkat Ali Sk
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2 views

SQL_Optimizations

This document provides a beginner-friendly guide to optimizing SQL queries with essential tips such as using DISTINCT selectively, avoiding cursors, and leveraging indexes for faster lookups. It emphasizes the importance of using WHERE and HAVING appropriately, as well as the benefits of breaking down complex queries and analyzing execution plans. Additional tips include using EXISTS over IN, cautious use of LIKE, and considering partitioning for large tables.

Uploaded by

Sawkat Ali Sk
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Here's a beginner-friendly guide to optimizing your SQL queries, starting with some tips from my

infographic:

1. Be Selective with DISTINCT: Only use DISTINCT when you absolutely need unique results. It can slow
down your query if used unnecessarily.

2. Rethink Scalar Functions: Instead of using functions that return a single value for each row in SELECT
statements, try using aggregate functions. They're often faster!

3. Cursor Caution: Avoid cursors when possible. They're like going through your data one by one, which
can be slow. Set-based operations are usually faster.

4. WHERE vs HAVING: Use WHERE to filter rows before grouping, and HAVING to filter after grouping.
This can significantly reduce the amount of data processed.

5. Index for Success: Think of indexes like the table of contents in a book. Create them on columns you
frequently search or join on for faster lookups.

6. JOIN Smartly: INNER JOIN is often faster than using WHERE for the same condition. It's like telling the
database exactly how to connect your tables.

7. CASE for Clarity: Use CASE WHEN statements instead of multiple OR conditions. It's clearer and can be
more efficient.

8. Divide and Conquer: Break down complex queries into simpler parts. It's easier to optimize and
understand smaller pieces.

But wait, there's more! Here are some extra tips to supercharge your queries:

9. EXISTS vs IN: Use EXISTS instead of IN for subqueries. It's often faster, especially with large datasets.

10. LIKE with Caution: Avoid using wildcards (%) at the beginning of your LIKE patterns. It prevents the
use of indexes.

11. Analyze Your Plans: Learn to read query execution plans. They're like a roadmap showing how your
database processes your query.

12. Partitioning Power: For huge tables, consider partitioning. It's like organizing your data into smaller,
manageable chunks.

13. Table Variables: Sometimes, using table variables instead of temporary tables can boost
performance.
14. Subquery Switcheroo: Try converting subqueries to JOINs or CTE. In many cases, this can speed up
your query.

Remember, optimization is a journey, not a destination. Start with these tips and keep learning!

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