Microsoft® SQL Server™ 2000 Unleashed, Second Edition

Summary

One of the most important aspects to improving SQL Server performance is proper index design. Choosing the appropriate indexes to be used by SQL Server to process queries involves thoroughly understanding the queries and transactions being run against the database, understanding the bias of the data, understanding how SQL Server uses indexes, and staying aware of the performance implications of overindexing tables in an OLTP environment. In general, consider using clustered indexes to support range retrievals or when data needs to be sorted in clustered index order; use nonclustered indexes for single or discrete row retrievals or when you can take advantage of index covering. Use the Index Tuning Wizard to help you identify the appropriate ...