# Generate the SQL's Explain Plan

- Let's assume this is the SQL to be checked

  SQL To Check

- Adjust the SQL Statement:
  - Extract the tested SQL into the SQL Developer editor.
  - Replace the COBOL name of each Host Variable with the equivalent database identifier :b<n> where n is a unique number identifying that host variable. If the same variable appears more than one in the SQL use the same database host variable id in all occurrences.
  - Force the database to analyze the SQL in Rule Base mode by introducing the RULE database hint phrase.

  Adjust the SQL Statement

- Generate the Explain Plan:

  - Position the cursor on the SQL statement.

  - Run the Explain Plan by hitting F10(or right-click anywhere on the SQL statement and click Explain Plan... from the context menu).

  - The generated plan will appear in the output tab.

    Explain Plan

Parent topic: Performance Testing - Oracle Only