stored functions

Stored functions are pre-written procedures in a database that perform specific tasks. They are saved in the database and can be called upon whenever needed, similar to a recipe you can use multiple times. When you need to perform a calculation or retrieve data, instead of writing the same instructions repeatedly, you call the stored function. This improves efficiency and maintains consistency since the logic remains centralized. Essentially, they help manage complex operations in a streamlined way, making data handling more effective and organized.