Description: A sort key is a column or set of columns that determines the order in which information is stored in a database table. Sort keys are fundamental for optimizing query performance in various database systems. By defining a sort key, you establish how data is organized on disk, which can significantly influence access speed and the efficiency of read operations. Sort keys allow queries that filter or group data based on these columns to execute more quickly, as related data is physically stored together. This is especially important in environments with large volumes of data, where response time can be critical. Additionally, sort keys can help reduce resource usage by minimizing the need to scan large amounts of irrelevant data. In summary, the proper choice of a sort key is a crucial aspect of database schema design, as it directly impacts the performance and efficiency of queries performed on stored data.
