Retrieving SQL Server Query Execution Plans: A Comprehensive Guide
Several methods exist for obtaining a query execution plan in Microsoft SQL Server, each suited to different situations.
Method 1: Using SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS)
- In the SSMS Query menu, enable "Include Actual Execution Plan."
- Execute your query or stored procedure.
- A dedicated "Execution plan" tab will display the plan within the results pane.
Method 2: Leveraging SHOWPLAN Options
Before running your query, execute one of these commands:
SET SHOWPLAN_TEXT ON
SET SHOWPLAN_ALL ON
SET SHOWPLAN_XML ON
SET STATISTICS PROFILE ON
-
SET STATISTICS XML ON
(Recommended)
The execution plan will then be included in the query's result set, formatted as specified.
Method 3: Utilizing SQL Server Profiler
- Configure a trace within SQL Server Profiler, ensuring the "Showplan XML" event is enabled.
- Run the query while the trace is active.
- The generated XML plan can then be extracted from the profiler trace file.
Method 4: Inspecting the Query Cache
- Query the
sys.dm_exec_cached_plans
Dynamic Management View (DMV) to access cached query plans. - Filter the results to pinpoint the desired plan.
- Extract the plan's XML representation from the query results.
Important Considerations:
- Always retrieve plans from the target database for accuracy.
- Plans for encrypted stored procedures cannot be captured.
- Actual execution plans offer greater detail than estimated plans.
Further Reading:
- Execution Plan Fundamentals
- SHOWPLAN Permissions and Transact-SQL Batches
- Analyzing the SQL Server Plan Cache
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