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SQL SERVER – Inserting into Sparse Column Sets and Errors Associated With It
I have written tons of blogs in the past around using sparse columns. The best part and lesser known part of sparse columns is that we can write to the column sets directly too. In this blog let me take a tour of how this can be achieved. When sparse…
Read MoreInterview Question of the Week #029 – Difference Between CHARINDEX vs PATINDEX
Question: What is the difference between CHARINDEX vs PATINDEX? Answer: We can use either CHARINDEX or PATINDEX to search in a TEXT field in SQL SERVER. The CHARINDEX and PATINDEX functions return the starting position of a pattern you specify. Both functions take two arguments. With PATINDEX, you must include percent signs before and…
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SQL SERVER – How to Find If Queries are Running in Parallel?
Let us learn today how to find if queries are running in Parallel? If a query runs in parallel it is a query that SQL Server thinks is expensive.
SQL SERVER – FIX – Property IsLocked is Not Available for Login
I play and experiment with SQL Server to the max. Sometimes I am not sure what I did and I land into something undesired. Then the reason to troubleshoot starts and I get to learn something new. Sometimes these learnings are based on error messages that you folks send me.…
Read MoreSQL SERVER – What are T-SQL Median? – Notes from the Field #090
[Note from Pinal]: In this episode of the Notes from the Field series database expert Kathi Kellenberger explains about T-SQL Median. Kathi is an amazing instructor, she was the SQL author I have read in my early career. The reason, I love SQL Server because her writing has instigated love for this technology…
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SQL SERVER – Generating Meaningful Test Data with dbForge Data Generator for SQL Server
Recently I faced with necessity of generating meaningful SQL data for testing purposes. During my search for a proper application for the task, I found out that Devart, a recognized developer of database solutions, released dbForge Data Generator for SQL Server, a GUI tool for fast generation of meaningful SQL data for development and testing purposes.
SQL SERVER – FIX – Server principal ‘Login Name’ has granted one or more permission(s). Revoke the permission(s) before dropping the server principal
There are parts of SQL Server where I always like to take expert advice. Sometimes a quick call to a friend can save you tons of time. When I see topics around AlwaysOn, though I know what the basic steps are to building and working with AlwaysOn, the hardcore troubleshooting…
Read MoreSQL SERVER – Fix – Error: Msg 468, Level 16, State 9, Line 1
Ever since I have started writing about Error Messages a number of you ping me from time to time to understand why you are getting an error. As I always say, Error messages are a great way to learn concepts and we become better if we understand the reason behind…
Read MoreInterview Question of the Week #028 – Few SQL Best Practices
Just last week, I moderated a SQL Server interview and I heard very interesting conversation. Question – What are the best practices are you following for SQL Server? When I heard this question – I thought candidate will answer many different things, but he was stunned and had nothing much to…
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