Types of Cursors in PL/SQL: Explained

When it comes to PL/SQL programming, understanding the various types of cursors is essential. There are primarily three types of cursors in PL/SQL:

1. Implicit Cursors: These cursors are automatically created by PL/SQL when a SQL statement is executed. Implicit cursors are convenient to use but offer limited functionality.
2. Explicit Cursors: Unlike implicit cursors, explicit cursors are explicitly declared by the programmer. They provide more control and flexibility, allowing for more complex operations and data manipulations.
3. Ref Cursors (Reference Cursors): Ref cursors are pointers to result sets, which can be passed between different program units. They offer dynamic SQL capabilities and are typically used in scenarios where the result set is unknown at compile time.

Each type of cursor has its own advantages and use cases. By mastering the nuances of these cursor types, you can write efficient and effective PL/SQL code. Good luck in your PL/SQL Programmer interview!