What to record before tuning a slow query starts with the original execution. Keep its SQL, inputs, connection settings, measurements, and plan together before testing a change.
Interview Question of the Week #043 – What is the Difference Between EXCEPT operator vs. NOT IN
Compare EXCEPT operator vs. NOT IN using NULL and duplicate examples, add NOT EXISTS, and inspect actual SQL Server anti-join plans.
SQL SERVER – Adding Datetime and Time Values Using Variables
Adding a time variable to a datetime variable throws Msg 402. The fix is to CAST the time to datetime first. Examples of adding datetime and time values.
SQL SERVER – Who is consuming CPU on my SQL Server?
A corridor question after my MODS session: who is consuming CPU on my SQL Server? Here is how I would find out using SQL Server itself.
SQL SERVER – What is Semantics Search Inside SQL Server?
What is Semantics Search in SQL Server? I lay the foundation: what semantics means, and how it relates to full-text, XML and spatial indexing.
SQL SERVER – Script level upgrade for database ‘master’ failed – CREATE SCHEMA failed due to previous errors
SQL Server failed to start with Script level upgrade for database ‘master’ failed, CREATE SCHEMA failed due to previous errors. Here is why it happens.
SQL SERVER – Taking Backup Without Consuming Disk Space
Taking backup without consuming disk space is possible with the NUL device, but it is dangerous. Here is how it works and why never to do it in production.