optimizer_max_permutations would only reduce the time spent on parsing, not the number of parses. In the original post, the parse "count" was reduced from 120 to 60. Seems to me like maybe it was some sort of pl/sql optimization that kept the cursor open so it didn't have to be reparsed? ________________________________ From: oracle-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:oracle-l-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Anjo Kolk Sent: Wednesday, August 30, 2006 12:39 PM Without seeing the statement, I would say max_permutations. Privileged/Confidential Information may be contained in this message or attachments hereto. Please advise immediately if you or your employer do not consent to Internet email for messages of this kind. Opinions, conclusions and other information in this message that do not relate to the official business of this company shall be understood as neither given nor endorsed by it.