The solution to my puzzle on why SELECT * throws an error but SELECT COUNT(*) does not, with the best reader answers and credit to Rob Farley.
SQL SERVER – Puzzle – SELECT * vs SELECT COUNT(*)
SELECT * gives an error when run alone, but SELECT COUNT(*) does not. Why? Here is my SELECT * vs SELECT COUNT(*) puzzle from the Bangalore User Group.
SQL SERVER – Finding Location of Log File when Primary Datafile is Crashed
Do you need the primary datafile to back up the log after a crash? Vinod Kumar asked, so I tried finding the location of the log file without it.
SQL Server Execution Plan Quiz: One Table, Two Operators
One table reference can produce Nested Loops, a Key Lookup and parallel operators in an execution plan. A controlled SQL example makes the work visible and shows why MAXDOP is a ceiling rather than a promise of parallel execution.
SQL SERVER – Solution – Challenge – Puzzle – Usage of FAST Hint
The solution to my puzzle on the usage of FAST hint: Brad Schulz shows an AdventureWorks example where the FAST hint really improves performance.
SQL SERVER – Puzzle – Error While Converting Money to Decimal
The answer to my puzzle on Converting Money to DECIMAL(5,2): why it fails with arithmetic overflow, and why DECIMAL(7,2) works, since precision includes scale.
SQL SERVER – Challenge – Puzzle – Why does RIGHT JOIN Exists
If LEFT JOIN does the same work, the puzzle is why RIGHT JOIN exists at all. Can you show a case where it is truly required? Share your answer.