> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.narrative.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Query Optimization

> Write faster, more efficient NQL queries

Efficient queries are essential for working with large datasets in Narrative. This section covers optimization techniques and patterns to help your queries run faster and use fewer resources.

## Prerequisites

Before diving into optimization, you should have:

* Basic familiarity with [NQL syntax](/nql/general/syntax)
* Understanding of [JOIN operations](/guides/nql/joining-datasets)

## Optimization guides

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Avoid OR in JOIN Clauses" icon="ban" href="/guides/nql/query-optimization/avoid-or-in-join">
    Restructure OR conditions into single-key joins for dramatically better performance
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Related content

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Understanding JOIN Performance" icon="chart-line" href="/concepts/nql/join-performance">
    Learn why certain JOIN patterns cause performance problems
  </Card>

  <Card title="NQL Functions Reference" icon="code" href="/nql/functions/index">
    Complete reference for NQL functions including UNNEST
  </Card>

  <Card title="Joining Datasets" icon="code-merge" href="/guides/nql/joining-datasets">
    Fundamentals of combining data from multiple datasets
  </Card>
</CardGroup>