The best way to learn query optimization is by doing it. How do you make a slow query run faster when time is limited and the results must remain exactly the same?

In this hands-on lab, you’ll put your skills to the test with four challenges inspired by real-world performance issues in Microsoft SQL Server production environments.

Each challenge comes with a time limit, and the goal is to optimize the query for better performance without changing its results. Once the challenges are complete, we’ll review and compare different approaches, analyze execution plans, and explore why some optimizations deliver significant improvements while others fall short of expectations. The best solutions will receive special recognition.

This lab is designed for developers, database administrators (DBAs), and anyone looking to sharpen their SQL Server and query optimization skills. A basic understanding of Transact-SQL (T-SQL) is required, along with a willingness to tackle real-world performance challenges.

Requirements

• Bring your own laptop with SQL Server 2022 or SQL Server 2025 Developer Edition installed

• Visual Studio Code or a similar tool

Workshop materials and database backups will be provided to participants in advance.