NOLOCK without WITH and without parentheses is not a hint, because SQL Server reads it as a table alias. This post proves it with a lock test, shows why the compatibility level doesn’t change it, and gives a query that finds the bad syntax in your code. It ends with the safer ways to write the hint.
SQL SERVER – 3 Different Usage of DBCC SQLPERF
DBCC SQLPERF can report log usage or reset cumulative wait and latch statistics. I separate reporting from resetting the baseline.
Upsert Patterns in SQL Server Without Race Conditions
Compare upsert patterns under concurrent calls, protect missing-key ranges, test MERGE with HOLDLOCK, and keep unique keys as a guard.
A Retry Loop in T-SQL for Deadlock Victims and Lock Timeouts
Build a bounded retry loop for deadlock and lock-timeout errors, roll back each failed transaction, and keep diagnostics beside retries.
SQL SERVER – FIX – Property IsLocked is Not Available for Login
Opening sa login properties in SSMS failed with Property IsLocked is not available for Login. I used Profiler to find the query returning NULL, and here is the fix.
Finding Hot Tables With sys.dm_db_index_usage_stats
Identify hot tables with index usage, lock and latch counters, table sizes, and retained snapshots that describe a real workload interval.
SQL SERVER – Find Blocking Using Blocked Process Threshold
My friend Jim came back with more blocking questions. Here is how the blocked process threshold option, a feature hidden in plain sight, helps find blocking.