I think a direct variable declaration (without constraints like not null) is the fastest. Of course if you are dealing with integers, use pls_integer instead of number, it is faster. Because for typecasting, I think it has to (somehow) access the dictionary to get the column or table information. If you want to write code for flexibility, maintainability use the anchored data types %type and %rowtype. Raj ______________________________________________________ Rajendra Jamadagni MIS, ESPN Inc. Rajendra dot Jamadagni at ESPN dot com Any opinion expressed here is personal and doesn't reflect that of ESPN Inc. QOTD: Any clod can have facts, but having an opinion is an art ! *********************************************************************1 This e-mail message is confidential, intended only for the named recipient(s) above and may contain information that is privileged, attorney work product or exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If you have received this message in error, or are not the named recipient(s), please immediately notify corporate MIS at (860) 766-2000 and delete this e-mail message from your computer, Thank you. *********************************************************************1 -- Please see the official ORACLE-L FAQ: http://www.orafaq.com -- Author: Jamadagni, Rajendra INET: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Fat City Network Services -- (858) 538-5051 FAX: (858) 538-5051 San Diego, California -- Public Internet access / Mailing Lists -------------------------------------------------------------------- To REMOVE yourself from this mailing list, send an E-Mail message to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] (note EXACT spelling of 'ListGuru') and in the message BODY, include a line containing: UNSUB ORACLE-L (or the name of mailing list you want to be removed from). You may also send the HELP command for other information (like subscribing).
