pg stat statements postgresql Examples & 2025 Guide | AI2sql

Try This Example

pg stat statements postgresql Examples & 2025 Guide

Performance troubleshooting and query optimization are critical for any PostgreSQL-based application. pg stat statements postgresql is a powerful extension designed to simplify tracking, analyzing, and improving SQL performance at the query level. However, it often challenges teams with complex query design and interpretation, slowing down root cause analysis.

With AI2sql platform, you can generate, interpret, and optimize pg_stat_statements queries in natural language—removing the steep learning curve and delivering insights in seconds. Whether you’re new to performance profiling or an expert aiming to work faster, this guide will show you how.

What is pg stat statements postgresql?

pg_stat_statements is a PostgreSQL extension that tracks execution statistics for all SQL statements executed by a server. It aggregates query performance data, helping DBAs and developers pinpoint slow queries and improve database efficiency.

Monitors frequency and performance of statements
Aggregates statistics by query structure, not literal values
Essential for query tuning, auditing, and health monitoring

How pg stat statements postgresql Works

Once enabled, pg_stat_statements collects data about execution counts, runtime, number of rows returned, and more. It provides a special view—pg_stat_statements—with historical statistics useful for performance diagnosis.

-- Enable the extension (run as superuser)
CREATE EXTENSION IF NOT EXISTS pg_stat_statements;

-- Query the statistics
SELECT * FROM pg_stat_statements ORDER BY total_time DESC LIMIT 5;

You can reset statistics when needed:

SELECT pg_stat_statements_reset();

Key Features & Benefits

Works automatically: Once enabled, it autogenerates actionable query performance data.
Enterprise-ready: Suitable for high-throughput production systems.
Lightweight and efficient: Minimal impact on server performance when properly configured.

Metric	pg_stat_statements	EXPLAIN
Mini Benchmark – pg_stat_statements vs. Traditional EXPLAIN
Query coverage	All queries, aggregated	Manual, one query at a time
Historical stats	Yes	No
Resource usage	Low	None (per execution)
Ease of use	Moderate	Simple (but limited)

Real-World Examples

Find the top slowest queries in your system:

SELECT query, calls, total_time, mean_time
FROM pg_stat_statements
ORDER BY mean_time DESC
LIMIT 10;

Identify queries executed most frequently:

SELECT query, calls
FROM pg_stat_statements
ORDER BY calls DESC
LIMIT 10;

Spot queries with the highest number of rows returned:

SELECT query, rows
FROM pg_stat_statements
ORDER BY rows DESC
LIMIT 5;

Generate SQL for pg stat statements postgresql instantly with AI2sql — no technical expertise required.

AI2sql Alternative – Generate SQL Without Tools

Building complex or even basic pg_stat_statements queries can be time-consuming, especially for teams under pressure. AI2sql makes it easier than ever: simply describe your need in plain English and let AI craft precise SQL queries. Try AI2sql pg stat statements postgresql Generator to:

Skip manual syntax research and SQL tuning
Get production-ready statements customized to your use case
Integrate instantly for enterprise workflows

Conclusion

pg_stat_statements postgresql is an essential analytics extension for any PostgreSQL environment focused on performance. While it’s powerful, mastering it takes time, from enablement to querying and result interpretation. That’s why over 50,000 developers—from fast startups to industry leaders like Stripe & Shopify—trust AI2sql to automate and simplify their database queries, saving countless hours per month. Skip syntax memorization, reduce trial-and-error, and get instant, business-ready insights.

Try AI2sql Free – Generate pg stat statements postgresql Solutions.