LSI vs GSI comparison in DynamoDB - Quick Revision & Key Differences

Recall & Review

beginner

What does LSI stand for in DynamoDB?

LSI stands for Local Secondary Index. It is an index that uses the same partition key as the base table but allows a different sort key.

beginner

What does GSI stand for in DynamoDB?

GSI stands for Global Secondary Index. It allows you to create an index with a different partition key and sort key from the base table.

intermediate

Can you add an LSI after creating a DynamoDB table?

No, LSIs must be defined when you create the table. You cannot add or remove LSIs later.

intermediate

Can you add a GSI after creating a DynamoDB table?

Yes, GSIs can be added or deleted at any time after the table is created.

intermediate

What is a key difference in data storage between LSI and GSI?

LSI shares the same partition key and storage as the base table, so it does not increase storage cost much. GSI stores data separately and can increase storage costs.

Which index type in DynamoDB allows a different partition key than the base table?

A Global Secondary Index (GSI)

B Sort Key

C Primary Key

D Local Secondary Index (LSI)

A Global Secondary Index (GSI) can have a different partition key and sort key from the base table.

When can you add a Local Secondary Index (LSI) to a DynamoDB table?

A Anytime after table creation

B Only after adding a GSI

C Only during table creation

D LSI cannot be added to DynamoDB tables

LSIs must be defined when the table is created and cannot be added later.

Which index type shares the same partition key as the base table?

A LSI

B GSI

C Primary Key

D None

LSI uses the same partition key as the base table but allows a different sort key.

Which index type can increase your storage costs more significantly?

A LSI

B Both equally

C Neither affects storage cost

D GSI

GSI stores data separately from the base table, which can increase storage costs.

Can you delete a Global Secondary Index (GSI) after creating a DynamoDB table?

A No

B Yes

C Only if no data exists

D Only during table deletion

GSIs can be added or deleted at any time after the table is created.

Explain the main differences between Local Secondary Index (LSI) and Global Secondary Index (GSI) in DynamoDB.

Think about keys, timing of creation, and storage.

Describe when you would choose to use an LSI versus a GSI in DynamoDB.

Consider query patterns and table design needs.