Inside the SQL Server Query Optimizer

by Benjamin Nevarez

The SQL Server Query Optimizer is perceived by many to be a magic black box, transforming SQL queries into high performance execution plans in the blink of an eye through some unknowable process. The truth is that, while the Query Optimizer is indeed the highly-complex result of decades of research, learning how it works its magic is not only possible, but immensely useful to database developers and administrators alike. A better understanding of what the Query Optimizer does behind the scenes can help you to improve the performance of your databases and applications, and this book explains the core concepts behind how the SQL Server Query Optimizer works. With this knowledge, you'll be able to write superior queries, provide the Query Optimizer with all the information it needs to produce efficient execution plans, and troubleshoot the cases when the Query Optimizer is not giving you the best plan possible. With over 15 years of experience in the use of Relational Databases (including SQL Server since version 6.5), Benjamin has watched the SQL Server Relational Engine grow and evolve. His insight will leave you with an excellent foundation in the practicalities of the Query Optimizer, and everything you need to know to start tuning your queries to perfection.

272 pages, Paperback

First published March 7, 2011

Reviews

[Tim · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was looking for a book with an in-depth coverage of the SQL Server Query Optimizer, and, sadly, this one is not it. It starts out promisingly enough, but just when you start getting a hang of what the optimization algorithms are and how they work, and are ready to dive into more details, the chapter ends abruptly and the author has moved on to other topics. Every chapter covers a different aspect of the optimizer, and while they are all a great introduction to that topic, ultimately that's all they are--an introduction. I found the overall coverage to be rather perfunctory, but if all you are looking for is to get your feet wet, the book will probably work out for you alright.

Writing is a little dry, which is something the author himself admits, and which is due to the fact that it is based mostly on the technical papers he studied to write this book. There's nothing wrong with that approach, but you can't really read more than a few pages at a time before starting to get sleepy :) But it also paces you, so this isn't really a complaint.