SQL Server XML modes — judge the statement: “FOR XML EXPLICIT tells SQL Server to place the values of the columns as attributes in the resulting XML document.” Indicate whether this is correct or incorrect.

Introduction / Context:
SQL Server supports several FOR XML modes (RAW, AUTO, EXPLICIT, PATH) that shape how query results are serialized to XML. This item asserts that EXPLICIT places values as attributes. Understanding each mode’s purpose clarifies why the statement is inaccurate.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• FOR XML RAW: returns each row as a generic element (e.g., ) with columns as attributes by default.
• FOR XML AUTO: uses table/alias names for elements; columns are typically attributes unless overridden.
• FOR XML EXPLICIT: allows precise control over nested elements/attributes via a specially shaped result set (Tag/Parent and column naming directives).
• FOR XML PATH: a flexible, simpler alternative to EXPLICIT for custom shapes.

Concept / Approach:
EXPLICIT does not inherently force “columns as attributes.” Instead, it lets you design the exact element/attribute mapping by encoding directives in column aliases (for example, Element!Attribute!Directive). RAW and AUTO are the modes commonly associated with default “columns as attributes.” Therefore, the blanket claim about EXPLICIT is incorrect.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare outputs of FOR XML RAW versus EXPLICIT for the same query. RAW yields attribute-centric rows by default; EXPLICIT requires you to define whether values become attributes or elements.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• “Correct” misstates EXPLICIT’s purpose.
• “Correct only for RAW/PATH” illustrates that the original claim confuses modes; PATH enables custom mapping but does not default to attributes.
• ANSI_PADDING is unrelated to XML serialization.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming all FOR XML modes behave the same; forgetting that EXPLICIT is powerful but complex and largely superseded by PATH for most custom needs.

Final Answer:
Incorrect