What is the primary purpose of indexing in a database?

The primary purpose of indexing in a database is to enhance the speed and efficiency of data retrieval operations. An index is a data structure that is created to allow for quicker searches on a database table, similar to how an index in a book helps locate information more quickly than reading through every page. By organizing the data in a way that makes it easier to search, an index reduces the amount of time required for queries to find specific records.

When a query is executed, instead of scanning through every row in a table, the database can reference the index to quickly locate the desired data. This is particularly beneficial in large databases where manually searching through extensive data would be inefficient and time-consuming.

The focus of indexing is more about enhancing performance in terms of retrieval speed rather than directly influencing other factors such as data accuracy or storage capacity. While accurate data and a suitable storage capacity are essential for a well-functioning database, indexing primarily concerns how quickly one can access that data.