Answer
Statistics describe data distribution in columns.
They help the optimizer estimate row counts and choose efficient execution plans.
Quick Answer
Statistics are histograms that tell SQL Server how data is distributed in a column — how many distinct values exist, how they're spread, what the min/max are. The query optimizer uses them to estimate how many rows a filter will return and pick the best execution plan.
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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