Why does the RANK() function sometimes produce gaps in the ranking sequence, whereas DENSE_RANK() does not?

hard📝 Conceptual Q10 of 15

SQL - Window Functions Fundamentals

Why does the RANK() function sometimes produce gaps in the ranking sequence, whereas DENSE_RANK() does not?

ABecause DENSE_RANK() sorts data differently than RANK()

BBecause DENSE_RANK() ignores ties and assigns unique ranks

CBecause RANK() counts total rows, while DENSE_RANK() counts distinct values

DBecause RANK() skips rank numbers after ties, but DENSE_RANK() assigns consecutive ranks

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Understand RANK() behavior
RANK() assigns the same rank to tied values but skips subsequent ranks, causing gaps.
Step 2: Understand DENSE_RANK() behavior
DENSE_RANK() assigns the same rank to ties but continues with the next consecutive rank, no gaps.
Final Answer:
Because RANK() skips rank numbers after ties, but DENSE_RANK() assigns consecutive ranks -> Option D
Quick Check:
RANK() gaps; DENSE_RANK() consecutive [OK]

Quick Trick: RANK() skips ranks after ties; DENSE_RANK() doesn't [OK]

Common Mistakes:

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