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ISNUMERIC Function Returns 1 for 12e5: What to Use Instead
The ISNUMERIC function returns 1 for strings that are not plain numbers, such as 12e5, a lone dollar sign and a lone plus. This post shows what it accepts, why, and which tests to use instead. It covers TRY_CAST and its blank string quirk, TRY_PARSE, and the digit pattern checks readers suggest.
Parameter Sniffing Fixes Compared: Which One to Use
Parameter sniffing fixes compared on one table show a clear order, from a cheap guess to a better index. This post runs the plain procedure, a local variable, OPTIMIZE FOR UNKNOWN, a scoped setting, OPTION (RECOMPILE) and a covering index on the same skewed table, and prints the page reads of each in both call orders.
OPTION (RECOMPILE) Hint: When a Fresh Plan Pays Off
The OPTION (RECOMPILE) hint tells SQL Server to build a new plan every time a statement runs. This post measures the page reads it saves on skewed data, the compile cost it adds, the filtered index it unlocks, and how to apply it to one statement of a procedure.
Database Scoped Configuration: Turn Off Parameter Sniffing
A database scoped configuration lets you turn off parameter sniffing for one database with a single statement. This post measures a procedure with the setting on and off, shows that the change clears the cached plans of the database, and explains what the switch does not fix.
How to Copy Files in SQL Server? – Interview Question of the Week #257
Question: How to Copy Files in SQL Server?
Answer: SQL Server 2019 has very interesting features that can make a life of DBA’s and Developers very easy.
Running DBCC CHECKDB on a Restored Copy Instead of Production
Run CHECKDB on a restored copy to validate a recoverable backup, retain the full check output, and understand what remains untested.
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