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Solving Real World Problems with SQL Server 2016 Query Store

Gail Shaw

Poor database performance is a widespread problem. This course will show you how SQL Server 2016's Query Store makes solving many query performance problems much easier than before.

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Poor database performance is a widespread problem. This course will show you how SQL Server 2016's Query Store makes solving many query performance problems much easier than before.

Poor database performance is a widespread problem, and as data volumes increase it's only going to get worse. Up until now, identifying the poorly performing queries was challenging and difficult. SQL Server 2016 introduced the Query Store, which automatically tracks query performance. In this course, Solving Real World Problems with SQL Server 2016 Query Store, you'll learn how to solve difficult query performance problems in an easier, more efficient way. This course will show how to identify query performance regressions using the Query Store, how to identify queries using the most resources, and how to track the overall resource consumption at the database level. It'll also show some advanced uses of Query Store, such as upgrade tests and load tests. By the end this course, you’ll be able to use Query Store to identify and resolve what were previously very difficult performance problems.

This course is no longer available. Find something similar by browsing:
SQL Server 2016 Query Store Query Performance Database Performance Resource Consumption Upgrade Tests Load Tests

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
Introduction
Solving Query Performance Regressions
Tracking Resource Consumption
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for learners who require advanced tools and strategies for addressing query performance problems
Helps identify queries that are consuming the most resources, suitable for performance optimization
Introduces Query Store, a feature that simplifies the process of identifying performance issues in SQL Server 2016

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Reviews summary

Practical sql server query store solutions

According to students, this course is a highly practical and invaluable resource for professionals tackling SQL Server performance issues. Learners praise the instructor's clear explanations and the effective hands-on demonstrations of SQL Server 2016 Query Store. The course excels in showing how to solve real-world database performance problems, from identifying regressions to advanced uses like upgrade tests. While comprehensive for its scope, some mention that it assumes basic SQL Server experience and primarily focuses on the Query Store features in SQL Server 2016, potentially leaving out very advanced optimization or newer version features.
Content is primarily tailored to SQL Server 2016 features.
"The content is specific to SQL Server 2016, which is fine, but newer versions have additional features not covered."
"The course is great for 2016 environments, but for those on newer versions, some features might differ."
"I found the course's focus on 2016 still highly relevant for many production environments."
Best suited for learners with some foundational SQL knowledge.
"Good practical guidance. ... for someone with basic experience, it's perfect."
"I found that some prior SQL Server experience was beneficial to fully grasp all concepts."
"Might be a bit fast-paced if you are completely new to database administration."
Offers a thorough overview of Query Store's capabilities.
"This course showed me advanced techniques and configurations I wasn't aware of."
"I learned how to use Query Store for performance regressions, resource tracking, and advanced testing."
"It covers the essentials and a good deal of advanced topics."
Instructor provides lucid explanations and effective demonstrations.
"The instructor explains complex concepts clearly, and the real-world examples are incredibly helpful."
"The instructor's delivery is clear and engaging. The practical examples were key to understanding the concepts."
"Sometimes the demos were a bit fast, but manageable. I'd suggest pausing a lot if you're following along."
Directly addresses common database performance problems.
"This course is a lifesaver for anyone dealing with SQL Server performance issues... It's practical and immediately applicable."
"The course directly addresses common database performance issues I face."
"I can immediately apply these Query Store techniques to my work."
May feel basic for very advanced performance tuning needs.
"I found this course a bit basic for my advanced needs... Felt a bit redundant if you already know the basics."
"I was hoping for more in-depth troubleshooting scenarios or comparisons with other performance tools."
"While it covered the essentials, I was looking for more advanced performance tuning beyond just identifying issues."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Solving Real World Problems with SQL Server 2016 Query Store with these activities:
Connect with Experienced SQL Server Performance Engineers on LinkedIn
Reaching out to experienced professionals on LinkedIn can provide you with valuable insights and guidance, expanding your knowledge and network in the field of SQL Server performance engineering.
Show steps
  • Identify SQL Server performance engineers on LinkedIn
  • Craft a personalized message requesting mentorship
  • Follow up and maintain communication
Study SQL Server Basics
Prepare for course material by reviewing the basics of SQL Server.
Show steps
  • Review online tutorials or documentation on SQL Server basics.
  • Take practice quizzes or exercises to test your understanding.
  • Complete small SQL Server exercises to apply your knowledge.
Review Query Basics
Refresh your understanding of query basics to strengthen your foundation for learning SQL Server 2016's Query Store.
Show steps
  • Review a beginner-level SQL tutorial or course
  • Practice writing basic SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE queries
  • Test your understanding by solving simple SQL problems
18 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 21 activities
Review SQL Server Performance Tuning by Itzik Ben-Gan
This book delves into advanced techniques for optimizing SQL Server performance, providing valuable insights to enhance your understanding of query performance issues.
View T-SQL Querying (Developer Reference) on Amazon
Show steps
  • Identify sections relevant to the course
  • Read and understand the concepts presented
  • Take notes or highlight key points
Follow Microsoft's Query Store tutorial
Strengthen your knowledge by following an official tutorial from Microsoft to gain a comprehensive understanding of Query Store's features and functionality.
Browse courses on Query Store
Show steps
  • Navigate to the Microsoft Query Store tutorial.
  • Review and understand the concepts and examples provided.
  • Implement the techniques and practices demonstrated in the tutorial.
Walkthrough of SQL Server 2016 Query Store Basics
Gain a deeper understanding of SQL Server 2016's Query Store by following a guided tutorial.
Show steps
  • Find a reputable tutorial or course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step, taking notes and experimenting with the concepts
  • Complete any exercises or quizzes provided in the tutorial
Solve practice problems using Query Store
Engage in hands-on practice by solving problems using Query Store to enhance your understanding and improve your skills.
Browse courses on Query Store
Show steps
  • Access the Query Store table.
  • Filter and identify inefficient queries.
  • Create indexes or rewrite queries to improve performance.
Complete the SQL Server Query Store Tutorial from Microsoft
This guided tutorial will provide hands-on experience with the Query Store feature, allowing you to apply these techniques directly in your own environment.
Show steps
  • Access and follow the Microsoft Query Store tutorial
  • Set up the Query Store in your SQL Server instance
  • Run queries and observe the data collected by Query Store
Practice Query Performance Analysis
Develop proficiency in analyzing query performance.
Show steps
  • Analyze sample queries to identify inefficiencies.
  • Use Query Store to monitor and track query performance.
  • Implement performance improvements based on analysis.
Identify Performance Bottlenecks with Query Store
Develop your ability to identify performance bottlenecks using SQL Server 2016's Query Store.
Show steps
  • Set up a SQL Server database with sample data
  • Run queries on the database and use Query Store to identify performance issues
  • Analyze the Query Store data to pinpoint the root causes of the bottlenecks
  • Apply optimizations to improve query performance
Analyze Query Execution Plans to Identify Performance Bottlenecks
By practicing the analysis of query execution plans, you'll develop a deeper understanding of how queries are executed, enabling you to pinpoint performance issues more effectively.
Show steps
  • Obtain a query execution plan for a specific query
  • Interpret the different components of the execution plan
  • Identify potential bottlenecks and performance issues
Configure and Manage Query Store
Solidify your understanding of Query Store by configuring and managing it in a real-world scenario.
Show steps
  • Create a new SQL Server database
  • Enable and configure Query Store for the database
  • Monitor the Query Store data and make adjustments as needed
  • Troubleshoot any issues that arise with Query Store
Collaborate on a Query Store project
Enhance your learning through collaboration by working with peers on a project involving Query Store, allowing you to share knowledge, learn from others, and deepen your understanding.
Browse courses on Query Store
Show steps
  • Team up with peers to form a project group.
  • Identify a real-world database performance issue.
  • Apply Query Store to analyze and resolve the issue as a team.
  • Present your findings and solution to the class.
Design a Database Schema with Query Store in Mind
Apply Query Store concepts to optimize database design for performance.
Show steps
  • Review principles of database schema design.
  • Consider Query Store's implications for schema decisions.
  • Design a database schema that leverages Query Store for optimal performance.
Write a blog post on Query Store usage
Solidify your knowledge by creating a blog post that explains the concepts and benefits of Query Store, helping you organize your thoughts and share your understanding with others.
Browse courses on Query Store
Show steps
  • Choose an aspect or feature of Query Store to focus on.
  • Research and gather information from credible sources.
  • Organize your content into a logical structure.
  • Write clear and concise explanations.
  • Proofread and edit your post for clarity and accuracy.
Develop a Plan to Implement the Query Store in Your Production Environment
Creating a plan for implementing the Query Store in your production environment will solidify your understanding of the practical considerations and challenges involved in real-world deployments.
Show steps
  • Define the goals and objectives for Query Store implementation
  • Identify the necessary resources and infrastructure requirements
  • Develop a timeline and plan for implementation
Discussion on Advanced Query Store Techniques
Expand your knowledge by discussing advanced Query Store techniques with peers.
Show steps
  • Join or create a study group or online forum focused on SQL Server Query Store
  • Participate in discussions and share your experiences with Query Store
  • Learn from others and gain new perspectives on advanced Query Store techniques
Participate in SQL Server Performance Tuning Competition
Challenge yourself and demonstrate your Query Store knowledge through competition.
Show steps
  • Find or host a SQL Server performance tuning competition.
  • Prepare for the competition by practicing performance analysis and optimization techniques.
  • Participate in the competition and showcase your skills.
Participate in a Peer Mentoring Group for SQL Server Performance Optimization
Engaging with other professionals in a peer mentoring group will allow you to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and learn from the experiences of others involved in SQL Server performance optimization.
Show steps
  • Join or create a peer mentoring group focused on SQL Server performance
  • Actively participate in discussions and knowledge sharing
  • Seek and provide feedback on optimization strategies
Contribute to the SQL Server Query Store Community on GitHub
Contributing to the open-source community allows you to engage with others working on similar projects, learn from their experiences, and contribute to the advancement of the SQL Server Query Store.
Show steps
  • Identify and select a project or issue related to the Query Store
  • Read the project documentation and codebase
  • Make code contributions or provide feedback on existing issues
Contribute to SQL Server Query Store Open Source Projects
Deepen your understanding of Query Store by contributing to its open source community.
Show steps
  • Identify open source projects related to SQL Server Query Store
  • Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute
  • Submit bug reports, feature requests, or code contributions to the project
  • Engage with the project community and learn from others

Career center

Learners who complete Solving Real World Problems with SQL Server 2016 Query Store will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are tasked with managing and maintaining databases. They ensure that data is stored securely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulations. Many professionals in this role specialize in a particular relational database management system (RDBMS), such as SQL Server. Thus, a course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for professionals in this field. This course teaches skills needed to identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server, which is a core part of a DBA's responsibilities.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to help businesses make informed decisions. They often use SQL to query databases and extract insights from data. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Data Analysts because it focuses on optimizing query performance. Query performance is essential for data analysts, as they often need to analyze large datasets and produce timely reports.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Data Engineer
Data Engineers build and maintain the infrastructure that processes and stores data. They often work with large datasets and need to ensure that data is processed and stored efficiently. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Data Engineers because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a critical skill for Data Engineers, as they need to ensure that data is processed and stored in a performant manner.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They often work with databases and need to ensure that data is stored and retrieved efficiently. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Software Engineers because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for Software Engineers, as they need to ensure that their applications perform well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Business Intelligence Analyst
Business Intelligence Analysts use data to help businesses make informed decisions. They often use SQL to query databases and extract insights from data. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Business Intelligence Analysts because it focuses on optimizing query performance. Query performance is essential for Business Intelligence Analysts, as they often need to analyze large datasets and produce timely reports.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Intelligence Analyst
Database Developer
Database Developers design and develop databases. They need to ensure that databases are efficient and meet the needs of the business. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Database Developers because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for Database Developers, as they need to ensure that the databases they design and develop perform well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Developer
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to solve business problems. They often use SQL to query databases and extract insights from data. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Data Scientists because it focuses on optimizing query performance. Query performance is essential for Data Scientists, as they often need to analyze large datasets and produce timely results.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts analyze and design business systems. They often work with databases and need to ensure that data is stored and retrieved efficiently. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Systems Analysts because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for Systems Analysts, as they need to ensure that the systems they design and implement perform well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst
ETL Developer
ETL Developers design and develop extract, transform, and load (ETL) processes. They need to ensure that ETL processes are efficient and meet the needs of the business. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current ETL Developers because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for ETL Developers, as they need to ensure that the ETL processes they design and develop perform well.
See salaries and explore the career path for ETL Developer
Database Architect
Database Architects design and develop database architectures. They need to ensure that database architectures are efficient and meet the needs of the business. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Database Architects because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for Database Architects, as they need to ensure that the database architectures they design and develop perform well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Architect
Data Warehouse Architect
Data Warehouse Architects design and develop data warehouses. They need to ensure that data warehouses are efficient and meet the needs of the business. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Data Warehouse Architects because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for Data Warehouse Architects, as they need to ensure that the data warehouses they design and develop perform well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Warehouse Architect
Performance Analyst
Performance Analysts analyze the performance of computer systems. They often work with databases and need to ensure that databases are performing efficiently. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Performance Analysts because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for Performance Analysts, as they need to ensure that the computer systems they analyze perform well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Performance Analyst
IT Manager
IT Managers plan and direct the activities of an organization's IT department. They need to ensure that the IT department is meeting the needs of the business. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current IT Managers because it can help them understand the performance of SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for IT Managers, as they need to ensure that the IT department is providing the necessary support to the business.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager
IT Consultant
IT Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on how to use IT effectively. They often work with databases and need to ensure that databases are performing efficiently. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current IT Consultants because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for IT Consultants, as they need to ensure that the advice they provide is based on sound technical knowledge.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Consultant
Software Tester
Software Testers test software applications to ensure that they are working correctly. They often work with databases and need to ensure that databases are performing efficiently. A course on SQL Server 2016 Query Store may be useful for aspiring and current Software Testers because it can help them identify and resolve performance problems in SQL Server databases. This is a valuable skill for Software Testers, as they need to ensure that the software applications they test are performing well.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Tester

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Solving Real World Problems with SQL Server 2016 Query Store.
Cover image
T-SQL Querying
Save
Provides easy-to-follow recipes for solving common query performance issues in SQL Server 2016.
T-SQL Querying (Developer Reference)
Paperback
$$$
T-SQL Querying (Developer Reference)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
SQL Server 2022 Query Performance Tuning
Save
Provides a more in-depth look at query performance tuning, which is valuable information for learners who want to delve deeper into this topic.
SQL Server 2022 Query Performance Tuning
Paperback
Check
SQL Server 2022 Query Performance Tuning
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Query Store for SQL Server 2019
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server execution plans, which is essential knowledge for understanding query performance.
Query Store for SQL Server 2019: Identify and Fix...
Paperback
$$
Query Store for SQL Server 2019: Identify and Fix...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
SQL Tuning
Save
Is written by a leading expert on database performance tuning, offering practical guidance for improving query performance.
SQL Tuning: Generating Optimal Execution Plans
Paperback
$$
SQL Tuning: Generating Optimal Execution Plans
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
SQL Performance Explained
Save
Helps build a solid conceptual understanding of SQL performance and optimization techniques.
SQL Performance Explained Everything Developers...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Fundamentals of Database Systems
Save
Provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of database systems, which is helpful for understanding the underlying concepts of SQL Server and query performance optimization.
Fundamentals of Database Systems (6th Edition)
Hardcover
$$$$
Fundamentals of Database Systems
Hardcover
$$
Fundamentals of Database Systems (International...
Paperback
$$
Fundamentals of Database Systems, Fourth Edition
Hardcover
$$$
Fundamentals of Database Systems, with E-book (3rd...
Hardcover
$$
Datu-base sistemak. Oinarriak
Hardcover
$$
"Fundamentals of Database Systems"
Unknown Binding
$$
Cover image
The Definitive Guide to DAX
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of data warehousing with SQL Server 2016, including how to use Query Store to improve data warehouse performance. The book is written by a Microsoft Certified Master and provides a practical, hands-on approach to data warehousing.
The Definitive Guide to DAX: Business Intelligence...
Paperback
$$$
The Definitive Guide to Dax (Business Skills)
Paperback
$$$
Definitive Guide to DAX, The: Business intelligence...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Azure SQL Revealed
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server 2016 database administration, including how to use Query Store to manage query performance. The book is written by a Microsoft Certified Master and provides a practical, hands-on approach to database administration.
Azure SQL Revealed
Paperback
Check
Azure SQL Revealed
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Beginner SQL Programming Using Microsoft SQL Server...
Save
Provides a technical overview of SQL Server 2016, including how to use Query Store. The book is written by a Microsoft Certified Master and provides a deep dive into the internal workings of SQL Server.
Beginner Database Design & SQL Programming Using...
Paperback
$$
Beginner SQL Programming Using Microsoft SQL Server...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
SQL Server 2008 Query Performance Tuning Distilled
Save
Provides a practical overview of SQL Server query tuning techniques, including how to use Query Store. The book is written by a Microsoft Certified Master and provides a hands-on approach to query tuning.
SQL Server 2008 Query Performance Tuning Distilled...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of SQL Server query optimization techniques, including how to use Query Store to improve query performance. The book is written by a database expert and provides a deep dive into the theory and practice of query optimization.
Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and...
Paperback
Check
Professional SQL Server 2008 Internals and...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
ISE Database System Concepts
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of database systems concepts and applications, including how to use Query Store to improve database performance. The book is written by database experts and provides a deep dive into the theory and practice of database systems.
Database System Concepts
Paperback
$$

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Course image
Time
121 hours
Level
Intermediate
Via
Pluralsight
Instructor
Gail Shaw
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for learners who require advanced tools and strategies for addressing query performance problems
Helps identify queries that are consuming the most resources, suitable for performance optimization
Introduces Query Store, a feature that simplifies the process of identifying performance issues in SQL Server 2016
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