10gR2 Docs: SORT The SORT keyword is valid only if you are creating this table as part of a hash cluster and only for columns that are also cluster columns. This clause instructs the database to sort the rows of the cluster on this column before applying the hash function. Doing so may improve response time during subsequent operations on the clustered data. I don't get it. My rudimentary understanding is: Oracle uses a hash function on the clustered column that would produce a "Block offset" and place that row there... so the location of the row is predetermined, what does it buy to sort the inserts? Is it purely an efficient space allocation thing? If done in order, the less likely to chain rows? Something like that? >>> This e-mail and any attachments are confidential, may contain legal, professional or other privileged information, and are intended solely for the addressee. If you are not the intended recipient, do not use the information in this e-mail in any way, delete this e-mail and notify the sender. CEG-IP2