Description: The Query Execution Plan is a detailed breakdown of how a query will be executed in a database management system. This plan includes a series of steps that the database engine will follow to retrieve the requested data in the most efficient way possible. In the context of distributed databases, the execution plan may involve identifying specific nodes that contain the data, using indexes to speed up the search, and optimizing the network to minimize latency. In relational database systems, the plan may include selecting join methods, the order of operations, and the use of indexes. Query optimization is crucial for improving performance, especially with large volumes of data. Tools like query analyzers and performance monitoring systems can utilize execution plans to analyze and visualize query performance. Such plans allow data engineers to identify bottlenecks and improve query efficiency in various applications. In summary, the Query Execution Plan is essential for ensuring that queries are executed effectively and efficiently, resulting in better overall database system performance.