Hi, I've found a couple good references that helped me. I think this is my favorite, so far: Oracle SQL Interactive Workbook ISBN 0131002775 http://www.bookpool.com/.x/d7zcd7dq24/sm/0131002775 There were a couple great ANSI join examples that helped me understand more complex ANSI join syntax complexity, especially how to group predicates with joins. This book was easy to browse at the bookstore and get a some ideas, tips and traps. I don't know yet about: Mastering Oracle SQL and SQL *Plus ISBN 1590594487 at http://www.bookpool.com/.x/d7zcd7s4g4/sm/1590594487 But, when I get mine I'll post a comment. ;-) Regards, Mike Thomas -- //www.freelists.org/webpage/oracle-l