Find database status such as ONLINE, OFFLINE, RESTORING or SUSPECT using sys.databases or DATABASEPROPERTYEX, and learn what each status means.
SQL SERVER – 2005 – Find Database Collation Using T-SQL and SSMS
Two ways to check database collation using T-SQL and SSMS in SQL Server 2005, and why DATABASEPROPERTYEX in T-SQL is the one I recommend.
SQL SERVER – Difference and Explanation among DECIMAL, FLOAT and NUMERIC
What is the difference between Decimal and Numeric? None, they are the same. Float is different: it is approximate, while Decimal keeps exact precision.
SQL SERVER – Actual Execution Plan vs. Estimated Execution Plan
Actual Execution Plan or Estimated Execution Plan? I always use the actual plan because it is accurate. Shortcuts: CTRL+M for actual, CTRL+L for estimated.
SQL SERVER – 2005 – Use Always Outer Join Clause instead of (*= and =*)
My friend’s queries failed in SQL Server 2005 because they used *= and =* for joins. Always use the LEFT or RIGHT outer join clause instead.
GROUPING_ID: Separate Stored NULL Values From ROLLUP Totals
GROUPING_ID helps me distinguish a stored NULL from a subtotal created by ROLLUP. Both can appear in the same column. I keep the grouping bits beside the numbers before adding presentation labels.
SQL SERVER – FIX : Error : msg 2540 – The system cannot self repair this error
Msg 2540 means the system cannot self repair this error, usually corrupt metadata or system files. My fix order: restore the backup, DBCC repair, check hardware.
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