When all records in a file must be processed, which file organization is most appropriate for efficient throughput?

Introduction / Context:
Different file organizations optimize for different access patterns. If the workload requires reading every record (for example, end-of-day reporting or audits), the arrangement that minimizes positioning overhead and supports linear scans is preferred. This question checks understanding of access patterns versus organization choice.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• All records must be visited exactly once.
• There is no need for frequent point lookups during the run.
• Storage resides on sequentially readable media (disk or tape).

Concept / Approach:
Sequential organization places records in a defined order on storage, enabling efficient streaming reads with minimal seeks. Indexed and direct organizations add overhead for random positioning; they are valuable for point queries but not necessary for full-file passes. Therefore, for whole-file processing, sequential is optimal for simplicity and throughput.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Benchmarks consistently show that sequential scans maximize read-ahead and caching efficiency compared to scattered random reads typical of direct access methods.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Overengineering file organization for rare lookups when the dominant workload is batch sequential processing.

Final Answer:
Sequential.