MDX is an expressive, language-based data analysis mechanism to Essbase databases. The MDX language can greatly increase the flexibility of ad hoc analysis and can use a single pass to perform queries that require multiple passes in previous query interfaces. MDX is a joint specification of the XML for Analysis founding members. For more information about XML for Analysis, please visit http://www.xmla.org.
An MDX script contains one or more query statements, each terminated by a semicolon. Statements are passed from the editor to the Essbase Server that you choose to connect. MDX Script Editor color-codes the elements of the MDX syntax and provides an auto-complete feature that helps you build statements as you type. Results are returned in a grid within the editor window. For detailed information about MDX syntax, see the MDX section in the Oracle Essbase Technical Reference.
You can write MDX scripts in MDX Script Editor or in an external text editor. You can open scripts and modify or execute them from MDX Script Editor. You cannot save MDX scripts as Essbase objects on Essbase Server; therefore, MDX scripts are not displayed in Enterprise View. You can, however, enable other users to access MDX scripts by saving them to the middle-tier Essbase Administration Server. You can also save MDX scripts as text files on a client computer or on a network, and you can open and manage the files in MDX Script Editor. See Saving MaxL and MDX Scripts for instructions.
You do not have to save MDX scripts in order to execute MDX statements. You can interactively type, execute, and clear MDX statements from within the editor to perform one or more operations at a time.
“Writing MDX Queries” in the Oracle Essbase Database Administrator's Guide
MDX Functions