Optimizer Hints

Optimizer hints are special instructions included in a database query to guide the query optimizer—the component that determines the most efficient way to retrieve data. By providing hints, developers can influence how the database engine executes the query, such as choosing specific indexes or join methods. These hints are useful for optimizing performance in complex scenarios where automatic decision-making may not yield the best results. While helpful, they should be used thoughtfully, as improper hints can lead to suboptimal performance or maintenance challenges.