Answer
An execution plan is SQL Server’s strategy for running a query.
The optimizer evaluates multiple plan options and picks the lowest-cost one.
Quick Answer
When SQL Server receives a query, it parses it, checks the plan cache for a reusable plan, then the query optimizer evaluates multiple possible plans using cost estimates and picks the cheapest one. The plan is cached and reused. For parameterized queries, the same plan handles all values — good and bad.
S
SugharaIQ Editorial Team
Verified Answer
This answer has been peer-reviewed by industry experts holding senior engineering roles to ensure technical accuracy and relevance for modern interview standards.
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Source: SugharaIQ