SQL indexes
SQL indexes
enabling faster data retrieval. They function similarly to an index in a book, allowing the
database to locate rows in a table more efficiently without scanning the entire table. Indexes are
particularly beneficial for large tables and queries with selective conditions, such as those using
WHERE clauses or joins.
Drawbacks of Indexes
Best Practices
1. Use indexes selectively: Index only columns frequently used in WHERE, JOIN, or
ORDER BY clauses.
2. Avoid indexing low-selectivity columns: Columns with few unique values may not
benefit significantly.
3. Regular maintenance: Rebuild indexes periodically if fragmentation occurs.
Indexes are a powerful tool but must be used wisely to balance query performance and
maintenance overhead.