Quick Answer
The answer is to use the sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats dynamic management function, as it is the most efficient way to check index fragmentation in Azure SQL Database. This DMV returns detailed fragmentation metrics—such as avg_fragmentation_in_percent and page_count—for every index across the database with minimal overhead when you specify a LIMITED scan mode, which only samples leaf-level pages. On the Microsoft Azure Database Administrator Associate DP-300 exam, this question tests your ability to distinguish between diagnostic tools: a common trap is confusing SHOWPLAN_XML (which shows query execution plans) or sys.indexes (which lacks fragmentation data) with the correct DMV. Remember that missing index DMVs like sys.dm_db_missing_index_details suggest new indexes, not existing fragmentation. For a quick memory tip, think “stats for fragments” to recall that sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats is your go-to for fragmentation analysis, especially when a weekly rebuild job suddenly slows down.
This DP-300 practice question tests your understanding of monitor, configure, and optimize database resources. Match the stated requirement to the specific cloud service, access model, or configuration option — many options are valid in isolation but not for this scenario. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
Your Azure SQL Database has a recurring job that rebuilds indexes weekly. After a recent change, the job is taking much longer to complete. You suspect that the index fragmentation is higher than usual. What is the most efficient way to check index fragmentation across the database?
Query sys.indexes to check the fragmentation percentage.
Why wrong: sys.indexes does not contain fragmentation data.
Use the sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats dynamic management function.
This DMF returns fragmentation details efficiently.
Use SET SHOWPLAN_XML ON and run sample queries.
Why wrong: Shows query plans, not index fragmentation.
Use the sys.dm_db_missing_index_details DMV.
Why wrong: Shows missing indexes, not fragmentation.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Use the sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats dynamic management function.
Option C is correct because sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats returns fragmentation details for all indexes in a database with minimal overhead when used with limited scanning. Option A is wrong because SHOWPLAN_XML shows query plans, not fragmentation. Option B is wrong because sys.indexes does not include fragmentation info. Option D is wrong because missing index DMVs suggest new indexes, not fragmentation.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Query sys.indexes to check the fragmentation percentage.
Why it's wrong here
sys.indexes does not contain fragmentation data.
Use the sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats dynamic management function.
Why this is correct
This DMF returns fragmentation details efficiently.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Use SET SHOWPLAN_XML ON and run sample queries.
Why it's wrong here
Shows query plans, not index fragmentation.
Use the sys.dm_db_missing_index_details DMV.
Why it's wrong here
Shows missing indexes, not fragmentation.
Common exam traps
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
Shows query plans, not index fragmentation.
Detailed technical explanation
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A cloud solutions architect for a retail company is evaluating services for a new workload. The correct answer here reflects best practice for the specific scenario described — not a general cloud recommendation. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Cloud exam questions reward reading the constraint carefully: the same technology can be right or wrong depending on the use case.
What to study next
Identify which DP-300 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
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FAQ
Monitor, configure, and optimize database resources — This question tests Monitor, configure, and optimize database resources — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Use the sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats dynamic management function. — Option C is correct because sys.dm_db_index_physical_stats returns fragmentation details for all indexes in a database with minimal overhead when used with limited scanning. Option A is wrong because SHOWPLAN_XML shows query plans, not fragmentation. Option B is wrong because sys.indexes does not include fragmentation info. Option D is wrong because missing index DMVs suggest new indexes, not fragmentation.
Identify which DP-300 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 21, 2026
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