Can you explain the difference between a stored procedure and a function in Oracle?

Understanding the Difference Between a Stored Procedure and a Function in Oracle

When it comes to Oracle database management, it is crucial to understand the distinction between a stored procedure and a function. Both stored procedures and functions are sets of SQL and PL/SQL statements that are stored in the database and can be called upon to perform specific tasks. However, the key difference lies in their return types and how they are used.

Stored Procedure:

In Oracle, a stored procedure is a set of SQL and PL/SQL statements that can perform a series of actions. Stored procedures do not have to return any value and are primarily used for their side effects, such as updating a table or sending an email. They can take parameters as input but do not return a value directly to the caller.

Function:

On the other hand, a function in Oracle is also a set of SQL and PL/SQL statements, but it must return a value. Functions are designed to perform a specific task and return a single value to the caller, making them more useful for calculations or data manipulation tasks.

Focus Keyword: Stored Procedure vs. Function in Oracle

When choosing between a stored procedure and a function in Oracle, consider whether the task requires a return value or just side effects. Stored procedures are ideal for complex actions with no need for a return value, while functions are better suited for tasks that require a calculated result to be returned.