SQLPlus script execution: does START filename run the file automatically?

Introduction / Context:
SQLPlus provides several ways to run external SQL scripts. The START command (and its shorthand @) reads and executes a script file. This question verifies that you know START actually runs the file, rather than merely loading it into the buffer.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• You have a .sql file on disk.
• SQLPlus has access to that path (current directory or full path given).
• The script contains valid SQL and/or PL/SQL commands.

Concept / Approach:
Typing START myscript.sql or @myscript.sql causes SQLPlus to read commands from the file and execute them in order, echoing results as they run. No extra slash is required unless a PL/SQL block in the file ends with END; and relies on slash execution semantics (most scripts include the ending slash themselves).

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare behavior to EDIT; EDIT opens the buffer in an editor, while START executes immediately. START and @ behave equivalently.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• START does not merely load; it executes.
• File name case, extensions, and SYSDBA are not requirements (path/access matters).

Common Pitfalls:
Using relative paths incorrectly; forgetting the trailing slash for PL/SQL blocks inside the file; lacking privileges for statements inside the script.

Final Answer:
Valid (START executes the specified script file, like @)