Snowflake Certification Practice Test

Is it a best practice to keep load files under 10-100 MB in size for optimal performance?

1. Yes, it is

2. No, larger files are better

3. Only if the data is compressed

4. Size does not affect performance

The correct answer is: Yes, it is

Keeping load files under 10-100 MB in size is indeed considered a best practice for optimal performance when working with Snowflake and similar data processing platforms. Smaller load file sizes facilitate more efficient data ingestion, as they allow for better parallel processing and reduce resource contention during the loading process. When smaller files are processed, the system can leverage its distributed architecture to execute multiple load tasks simultaneously, which can significantly decrease the overall loading time. Additionally, managing smaller files can lead to fewer issues related to timeout errors or resource management, as each individual file can be handled quickly without overwhelming the system's capabilities. In contrast, larger files may lead to longer processing times and increased risk of failures during loading due to memory constraints or timeouts. This can result in less efficient data pipelines and delays in accessing and analyzing the data. This practice helps ensure that the system remains responsive and that data loading is streamlined, ultimately contributing to smoother workflows and enhanced performance within Snowflake.