# Use of Database Functions

- Not all database functions available for one database are valid for others. Make sure that when you do use a database function the SQL works properly on every database supported by the product.
- Avoid using LIKE as this will cause table scans. To achieve the 'LIKE' function where the first part of the string is specified, e.g., "CM%", BETWEEN may be used with the input criteria padded with high and low values.

Parent topic: WHERE Clause