What are the differences between implicit and explicit cursors in PL/SQL?

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Answered by suresh

Differences Between Implicit and Explicit Cursors in PL/SQL

Understanding Implicit and Explicit Cursors in PL/SQL

When working with PL/SQL, it is important to understand the differences between implicit and explicit cursors. The main focus keyword here is cursors in PL/SQL.

Implicit Cursors:

  • Implicit cursors are automatically created by the SQL engine.
  • They are used for single-row queries where you do not need to explicitly declare and manage the cursor.
  • These cursors are suitable for simple queries and provide less control over cursor operations.

Explicit Cursors:

  • Explicit cursors are declared and managed by the user in PL/SQL.
  • They provide more control over the cursor operations, such as opening, fetching, and closing the cursor.
  • Explicit cursors are used for complex queries involving multiple rows or when you need precise control over the cursor handling.

By understanding the differences between implicit and explicit cursors, you can choose the appropriate cursor type based on your query requirements and control needs in PL/SQL programming.

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Answered by suresh

Differences Between Implicit and Explicit Cursors in PL/SQL | Interview Question

Implicit vs Explicit Cursors in PL/SQL - Interview Question Answer

Implicit and Explicit Cursors are two types of cursors in PL/SQL used for fetching data from the database. Here are the key differences between them:

Implicit Cursors:

  • Automatically created by PL/SQL when executing SELECT statements without explicitly declaring a cursor.
  • Used for one-time query execution and retrieval of results.
  • Automatically handles opening, fetching, and closing the cursor.
  • Recommended for simple, single-row queries.

Explicit Cursors:

  • Declared explicitly by the programmer using DECLARE, OPEN, FETCH, and CLOSE statements.
  • Allow for better control over the cursor operations and data retrieval process.
  • Must be manually opened, fetched, and closed by the programmer.
  • Recommended for handling complex queries, multiple rows of data, and data manipulation.

When choosing between implicit and explicit cursors in PL/SQL, consider the complexity of the query and the level of control required over the cursor operations.

Answer for Question: What are the differences between implicit and explicit cursors in PL/SQL?