Oracle apps Reports interview questions all


https://www.softwaretestinghelp.com/oracle-forms-and-reports-interview-questions/

Q #11) What is an Oracle Report? List its various types.
Ans: Oracle Report is a tool provided by Oracle Fusion Middleware, which is used to generate reports based on the data stored in the Oracle database. It consists of Oracle Reports Developer, a report designing tool and Oracle Application Server Reports Services.
Various types of reports include:
  • Tabular
  • Master-Detail Reports
  • Form Reports
  • Form Letter Reports
  • Mailing Labels Reports
  • Matrix Reports
Q #12) What is an implicit anchor and how is it a different form explicit anchor in a report builder?
Ans: An anchor is used to determine the position of an object in horizontal and vertical directions. This position of an object will always be relative to a position of the other objects, which can be called as parent objects for these child objects.
During runtime, an implicit anchor will be generated by the Oracle Forms Builder for each layout object, which is not holding an explicit anchor. Implicit anchor will be created during runtime of a report while explicit anchors are created by a user explicitly.
Q #13) Name the different triggers supported by Oracle Reports and their firing order.
Ans: Listed below are the triggers supported by Oracle reports:
  • Before Parameter Form: Gets fired before a display of runtime parameter form on a screen.
  • After Parameter Form: Gets fired after the display of runtime parameter form on a screen.
  • Before Report: Gets fired before the execution of a report but after the queries get parsed.
  • Between Pages: Gets fired before formatting is done for every page except the first page.
  • After Report: Gets fired either at the exit of Previewer or once the report output is shared with a destination.
Q #14) What is the difference between bind and lexical parameter?
Ans: Bind parameters are the variables, which can replace a single value in SQL/PLSQL such as number, character, string or date.
While lexical parameter can replace clauses or multiple values embedded in SELECT query possibly after SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING, CONNECT BY, and START WITH.
Q #15) List the different types of columns in Oracle Reports.
Ans: There are three types of columns in Oracle reports.
They are:
  • Formula Columns: Column that can do user-defined calculations on values within other columns and return some value.
  • Summary Columns: Column, which can do summary computations like sum, average etc. on values placed in the other columns.
  • Placeholder Columns: Column for which data type or value can be set using PL/SQL.
Q #16) What is a User exit program in oracle reports?
Ans: User exit is a program which is written to perform some relevant action. They can be called from report triggers and once executed, it gives back the control to Report Builder.
Few of the user exits are listed as shown below:
  • FND SRWINIT
  • FND SRWEXIT
  • FND FORMAT_CURRENCY
  • FND FLEXSQL
  • FND FLEXIDVAL
Q #17) How can we generate report output in Excel format?
Ans: To get report data in an Excel format, we can use:
  • SPOOL Command
  • Text_IO Package
  • UTL Package
Q #18) What is the difference between flex mode and confined mode?
Ans: Confined mode if set restricts the child object within enclosing parent objects. If not set on, child an object can move out of parent objects.
During flex mode, parent objects will adjust its border if child object expands or moves. If not set, parent borders stay fixed when the child objects move.
Q #19) What is a matrix report and how many minimum groups are required to prepare the same?
Ans: A matrix is a kind of report that looks like an information grid with one row of labels and one column of columns.
At least 4 groups are required in the data model to prepare a matrix report. One should be a cross product group, one cell group & at least two groups should be within a cross product group.
Q #20) Is it possible to have multiple layouts in a report?
Ans: Yes, it is possible to have multiple layouts. We can use additional layout option in the layout editor tool.

Conclusion

Hope the above article will help you to prepare for your interview and increase your knowledge of the concept of Oracle Forms and Reports.
  1. Answer :
    • Tabular
    • Master Detail Reports
    • Form Reports
    • From Letter Reports
    • Mailing Labels Reports
    • Matrix Reports
  2. Answer :
    An anchor defines the actual position of an object. Anchors are used to determine the vertical and horizontal positioning of a child object relative to its parent.
  3. Answer :
    A There are two types of anchors in Oracle Reports:
    • Implicit (Created when a report will run)
    • Explicit (Anchors you create)
  4. Answer :
    There are five reports trigger with order:
    1. Before Parameter Form
    2. After Parameter Form
    3. Before Report
    4. Between Pages
    5. After Report
    Before Form Trigger: It wills Fires before the Run time Parameter Form that will displayed on screen. By using this trigger you can change the value of the parameters.
    After Form Trigger: Fires after the Run time Parameter Form is displayed. From this trigger, you can access parameters and check their values. This trigger can also be used to change parameter values or, if an error occurs, return to the Runtime Parameter Form.
    Before Report Trigger: It will Fires before the report is executed but after queries are parsed and data is fetched.
    Between Pages Trigger: Fires before each page of the report are formatted, except the very first page. This trigger can be used for customized page formatting. (Note: In the Previewer, this trigger only fires the first time that you go to a page. If you subsequently return to the page, the trigger does not fire again.)
    After Report Trigger: Fires after you exit the Previewer, or after report output is sent to a specified destination, such as a file, a printer, or an Oracle*Mail userid. This trigger can be used to clean up any initial processing that was done, such as deleting tables. Note, however, that this trigger always fires, whether or not your report completed successfully.
    Format Triggers: Format Triggers are PL/SQL functions executed before the object is formatted. The trigger can be used to dynamically change the formatting attributes of the object.
  5. Answer :
    A placeholder is a logical column for which you can conditionally set the datatype and value via PL/SQL or a user exit. Placeholder columns are useful when you want to selectively populate a column with a value.
  6. Answer :
    A report has three main sections:
    1. Report header pages
    2. Report body/margin pages
    3. Report trailer pages
  7. Answer :
    There are two types of parameters:
    1. System Parameters
    2. User defined (bind and lexical) parameters
  8. Answer :
    1. Bind parameters are used to replace a single value in SQL or PL/SQL, such as a character string, number, or date.
    2. Lexical parameters are placeholders for text that you embed in a SELECT statement. Use Lexical reference when you want the parameter to substitute multiple values at runtime. You can use lexical references to replace the clauses appearing after SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING, CONNECT BY, and START WITH.
  9. Answer :
    1. Single query
    2. Multi query
    3. Nested Query
    4. Matrix Break
  10. Answer :
    You can set the maximum records per page property of the Repeating frame to.
  11. Answer :
    Page protects property for an object indicates whether to try to keep the entire object and its contents on the same logical page. Checking Page Protect means that if the contents of the object cannot fit on the current logical page, the object and all of its contents will be moved to the next logical page.
  12. Answer :
    ‘Print Condition Type’ property specifies the frequency with which you want the object to appear in the report. The Print Condition Type options indicate the logical page(s) on which the object should be triggered to print with regard to the Print Condition Object.
  13. Answer :
    The various values are:
    1. All: All means the object and all of its contents will be printed on all logical pages of the Print Condition Object. The object will be repeated on any overflow pages of the Print Condition Object and will be truncated at the logical page boundary, if necessary.
    2. All but First: All but First means the object and all of its contents will be printed on all logical pages of the Print Condition Object except the first logical page. The object will be formatted only on overflow pages of the Print Condition Object and will be truncated at the logical page boundary, if necessary.
    3. All but Last: All but Last means the object and all of its contents will be printed on all logical pages of the Print Condition Object except the last logical page. The object will be repeated on any overflow pages of the Print Condition Object except the last one and will be truncated at the logical page boundary, if necessary.
    4. Default: Default means that Oracle Reports will use object positioning to set the Print Condition Type to either *First or *Last for you.
    5. First: First means that the object and all of its contents will only be printed on the first logical page of the Print Condition Object. The object will be formatted and will overflow to subsequent pages, if necessary.
    6. Last: Last means that the object and all of its contents will only be printed on the last logical page of the Print Condition Object. The object will be formatted after the Print Condition Object and will overflow to subsequent pages, if necessary.
  14. Answer :
    When we set flex mode is ON then reports automatically resize the parent when the child is resized.
  15. Answer :
    When we set confine mode is “ON” then object cannot be moved outside its parent in the report layout.
  16. Answer :
    Four groups are required for a matrix reports.
  17. Answer :
    When we set lock option we cannot move the fields in the layout editor outside the frame. This is very useful for maintaining the fields.
  18. Answer :
    There are 3 types of columns in the reports builder:
    1. Placeholder Column
    2. Formula Column
    3. Summary Column



  What is a Lexical Parameter?
Lexical parameters are used to substitute multiple values at runtime and are identified by a preceding ‘&’. Lexicals can consist of as little a one line where clause to an entire select statement
 Lexical Parameters are used to execute query dynamically.
Example: An example of a lexical parameter usage in a select statement is as follows
               Select * from emp, deptno
               &where.
In the properties of the 'where' user parameter, make sure that the data type of the 'where' user parameter is set as character.  If you know the maximum length that your where clause is going be, you can set the width of the where parameter to be slightly greater than that number.  Otherwise, set it to some number like 100. 
If your lexical parameter ('where') width is not enough to hold the where condition assigned to it, you will receive one of the following errors depending on your Reports version.
   REP-0450 - Unhandled exception,
  and ORA-6502- PL/SQL numeric or value error.
   or
   REP-1401 - Fatal PL/SQL error in afterptrigger 
  and ORA-6502-PL/SQL numeric or value error.
2.       What is a Bind Variable?
Bind parameters are used to substitute single value at runtime for evaluation and are identified by a preceding ‘:’. An example of a bind parameter in a select statement is provided below, where :P_EMP is the bind parameter reference.
                               Select ename,empno
                                From emp
                               Where empno= :P_EMP

These are used as tokens while registering concurrent program.
3.                   Difference between lexical and bind variable?
Bind references are used to replace a single value in SQL or PL/SQL.  Specifically, bind references may be used to replace expressions in SELECT, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING,CONNECT BY, and START WITH clauses of queries.  Binds may not be referenced in the FROM clause.  An example is: 
SELECT ORDID,TOTAL
FROM ORD
WHERE CUSTID = :CUST
Lexical references are placeholders for text that you embed in a SELECT statement.  You can use lexical references to replace the clauses appearing after SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY , ORDER BY , HAVING, CONNECT BY, and START WITH.  You cannot make lexical references in PL/SQL.  Before you reference a lexical parameter in a query you must have predefined the parameter and given it an initial value.  An example is: 

SELECT ORDID, TOTAL
FROM &ATABLE

4.       How many types of Triggers are there and what are they? Tell their sequence of execution.
Report triggers execute PL/SQL functions at specific times during the execution and formatting of your report.  Using the conditional processing capabilities of PL/SQL for these triggers, you can do things such as customize the formatting of your report, perform initialization tasks, and access the database.  To create or modify a report trigger, use Report Triggers in the Object Navigator.  Report triggers must explicitly return TRUE or FALSE.  Report Builder has five global report triggers (you cannot create new global report triggers):

Before Parameter Form trigger
After Parameter Form trigger
Before Report trigger
Between Pages trigger
After Report trigger
Before Report trigger and After Report trigger should be declared compulsory. In the Before Report trigger we declare the srw.user_exit(‘ fnd srwinit’) user exist and in the After Report trigger srw.user_exit (‘fnd srwexit’)
The sequence/order of events when a report is executed is as follows:

Before Parameter Form trigger is fired.
1 Runtime Parameter Form appears (if not suppressed).

2 After Parameter Form trigger is fired (unless the user cancels from the Runtime Parameter
Form).

3 Report is "compiled."

4 Queries are parsed.

5 Before Report trigger is fired.

6 SET TRANSACTION READONLY is executed (if specified via the READONLY argument
or setting).

7 The report is executed and the Between Pages trigger fires for each page except the last one.
(Note that data can be fetched at any time while the report is being formatted.) COMMITs
can occur during this time due to any of the following--user exit with DDL, SRW.DO_SQL
with DDL, or if ONFAILURE=COMMIT, and the report fails.

8 COMMIT is executed (if READONLY is specified) to end the transaction.

9 After Report trigger is fired.

10 COMMIT/ROLLBACK/NOACTION is executed based on what was specified via the
ONSUCCESS argument or setting.

Cautions
=========
1. In steps 4 through 9, avoid DDL statements that would modify the tables on which the
report is based. Step 3 takes a snapshot of the tables and the snapshot must remain valid
throughout the execution of the report. In steps 7 through 9, avoid DML statements that
would modify the contents of the tables on which the report is based. Queries may be
executed in any order, which makes DML statements unreliable (unless performed on tables
not used by the report).

2. If you specify READONLY, you should avoid DDL altogether. When you execute a DDL
statement (e.g., via SRW.DO_SQL or a user exit), a COMMIT is automatically issued. If you
are using READONLY, this will prematurely end the transaction begun by SET
TRANSACTION READONLY.


Report trigger restrictions
=============================
1. If you are sending your report output to the Runtime Previewer or Live Previewer, you

should note that some or all of the report triggers may be fired before you see the report
output. For example, suppose that you use SRW.MESSAGE to issue a message in the
Between Pages trigger when a condition is met. If there are forward references in the report
(e.g., a total number of pages displayed before the last page), Report Builder may have to
format ahead to compute the forward references. Hence, even though you have not yet seen
a page, it may already have been formatted and the trigger fired.

2. In report triggers, you can use the values of report-level columns and parameters. For
example, you might need to use the value of a parameter called COUNT1 in a condition
(e.g., IF :COUNT1 = 10). Note, though, that you cannot reference any page-dependent columns (i.e., a column with a Reset At of Page) or columns that rely on page-dependent columns.

3. In the Before and After Parameter Form, and Before and After Report triggers, you can set
the values of parameters (e.g., give them a value in an assignment statement, :COUNT1 =
15). In the Before and After Report triggers, you can also set the values of report-level,
placeholder columns.

4. In the Between Pages trigger, you cannot set the values of any data model objects. Note also
that the use of PL/SQL global variables to indirectly set the values of columns or parameters
is not recommended. If you do this, you may get unpredictable results.

5. If you run a report from Report Builder Runtime (i.e., not the command line or
SRW.RUN_REPORT), you should commit database changes you make in the Before
Parameter Form, After Parameter Form, and Validation triggers before the report runs.
When running in this way, these triggers will share the parent process’ database connection.
When the report is actually executed, however, it will establish its own database connection.

6. A lexical reference cannot be used to create additional bind variables after the After
Parameter Form trigger fires. For example, suppose you have a query like the following
(note that the WHERE clause is replaced by a lexical reference):
SELECT ENAME, SAL FROM EMP
&where_clause
If the value of the WHERE_CLAUSE parameter contains a reference to a bind variable, you
must specify the value in the After Parameter Form trigger or earlier. You would get an
error if you supplied the following value for the parameter in the Before Report trigger. If
you supplied this same value in the After Parameter Form trigger, the report would run.
WHERE SAL = :new_bind
5.       What is a Format Trigger?
Format triggers are PL/SQL functions executed before the object is formatted.  The trigger can be used to dynamically change the formatting attributes of the object.  The function must return a Boolean value (TRUE or FALSE).  Depending on whether the function returns TRUE or FALSE, the current instance of the object is included or excluded from the report output.  You can access format triggers from the Object Navigator, the Property Palette, or the PL/SQL Editor.
A format trigger is a PL/SQL function executed before an object is formatted.  A trigger can be used to dynamically change the formatting attributes of the object.

6.       What is Anchoring?
It is a feature thru which we can control the position of the boiler plate or data fields in layout.
Anchors are used to determine the vertical and horizontal positioning of a child object relative to its parent.  The end of the anchor with a symbol is attached to the parent object.
When you create a default layout, Reports will create some of its own implicit anchors.  These are not visible. There may be occasions when you want to create your own explicit anchors to force objects to be positioned together or to conditionally specify when the object prints.
 You create an explicit anchor as follows:
 1.  Select the Anchor tool in the Layout Tool Palette.
 2.  Click on an edge of the Child object.
 3.  Move the cursor to the edge of the Parent object and double click to fix the anchor.
 You can position the anchor at any distance down the edge of the object.  The distance is a percentage of the total length of the edge.  You can adjust this position in the anchor property sheet.
 Examples of using explicit anchors:
 ANCHORING BOILERPLATE TO A FRAME
--------------------------------
 You may want to display some boiler plate to the right of, and half way down a vertical list of records.
 In this case, you would create an anchor from the child boilerplate to the parent, group or repeating frame.  Ensure the parent end point is 50% down the right edge of the frame.
 ANCHORING CONDITIONAL OBJECTS
----------------------------
 To adjust the position of a layout object if the anchoring parent does not display, you can define your explicit anchor as collapsible either horizontally or vertically.  The child layout object then collapses, to suppress additional spacing, if the parent object does not print.
 An example of where you might use this would be on Mailing Labels.
Mailing Labels often include optional fields to allow variable number of lines in an address.  You may want to suppress the fields that are null, so that the address in the labels does not have gaps between the lines.
 For example:
   f_name
   f_address1
   f_address2 
   f_address3
   f_address4
 where f_address2 is an optional field.
 1.  Select f_address2 in the layout editor and go into the property sheet.
2.  In Reports V2.5, under the general layout tab, click on the Format Trigger 
    Edit button to create the following format trigger.
    In other versions of Reports, under advanced layout, click on the Format 
    Trigger to create the following format trigger. 
      FUNCTION f_address2 RETURN BOOLEAN IS
      BEGIN
      IF :address2 IS NULL THEN
         RETURN (FALSE);
      ELSE
         RETURN (TRUE);
      END IF;
      END;
3.  Then create an anchor from f_address3 (the field below) upto to f_address2 (the optional field).  In the anchor properties place a check in the collapse vertically check box.
4.  Create another anchor, this time from f_address4 to f_address3, again setting it to collapse vertically.  This process needs to be done for all the fields below the optional field to avoid any unwanted spaces.

7.       What is Frame and Repeating Frame?
Frames are used to surround other objects and protect them from being overwritten or pushed by other objects.  For example, a frame might be used to surround all objects owned by a group, to surround column headings, or to surround summaries. 
Repeating frames are place holders for records.  Repeating frames print once for each record of a group and control record-level formatting.  Reports will generate one repeating frame for each group when you create a default layout.
Reports will place containers of columns inside of the frames.  Each repeating frame retrieves only one row in its fetch cycle for any one repetition.  Until it is constrained by another frame, it will repeat itself until the while loop condition can no longer be satisfied.
 We give group in data model as source to repeating frame.
8.       What are Confined Mode and Flex Mode?
Confined mode allows objects to be locked into the place in the layout. Objects are maintained within their containers.
CONFINE mode is not for a specific object, but applies to all objects on the layout when it is enabled (locked).When it is turned off (unlocked), you are allowed to move an object outside its surrounding frame. When it is turned on (locked), you are unable to move an object outside its surrounding frame.  This is to prevent unnecessary 'Frequency Errors'.
 Flex mode preserves the layout structure while allowing expanding and shrinking of the layout.
FLEX mode, when enabled, allows surrounding frames to grow as an object is resized or moved.  Only one object at a time can be moved either vertically or horizontally, not diagonally.  
9.       What are User Exits?
You build user exits when you want to pass control from Report Builder to a program you have written, which performs some function, and then returns control to Report Builder.
 You can write the following types of user exits: 
 *             ORACLE Precompiler user exits
 *             OCI (ORACLE Call Interface) user exits
 *             Non-ORACLE user exits.
User exits can perform the following tasks: 
 *             Perform complex data manipulation 
 *             Pass data to Report Builder from operating system text files 
 *             Manipulate LONG RAW data 
 *             Support PL/SQL blocks 
 *             Control real time devices, such as a printer or a robot 
 You can use user exits for other tasks, such as mathematical processing.  
However, it is recommended that you perform such tasks with PL/SQL within Report Builder itself. 
Ex: FNDSRWINIT, FNDSRWEXIT.
10.   How do I Register a Custom Report?
               Step 1: Register a concurrent program executable 
         Navigate to the Define Executable form (AOL Reference manual pg 9-84)
         This determines the type of program being run,ie an Oracle Report. Fill in the executable name, application and execution method. For the Execution File, fill in just the filename. The concurrent manager will look in the appropriate directory under the application's top directory.
         For spawned programs, the file must be in the bin directory, for Oracle Reports the rdf file must be in the srw directory.
         For PLSQL concurrent programs, put the name of the stored procedure.
           Step 2: Define the concurrent program
         Navigate to the Define Concurrent Program form (AOL Reference manual pg 9-87)
         This form links a concurrent program to the executable you just defined, as well as defines the programs parameters, incompatibilities, and other options.
Enter the concurrent program name, application, short name and description. Check Standard Submission if you want to be able to submit this program from the Standard Report Submission form.
Enter the name of the executable you defined and any report information if necessary. Also define any parameters your program needs here and any incompatibilities.
         Step 3: Add the concurrent program to a Report Group
         First you will need to find the name of the Report Group to use.
         Go to Security->Responsibility and query the responsibility you want to run the program with.
         It should show a Report Group name. Query this name in Security->Responsibility->Report
         Add your new program to the list of available programs. Now when you go to submit a request with this responsibility, you will be able to submit your custom program.

11.   What is a Token?
Token is used to attach a bindvariable to a report parameter while registering the report as concurrent program.
12.   What is the use of ‘Send to Back’ and ‘Bring to Front’?
To change the order in which objects are layered on top of each other.
Send to Back to move the object behind all other objects.
Bring to Front to move the object in front of all other objects.
13.   If 2nd parameter value is based on 1st parameter then how do u declare it?
Let v2 be the value set definition of 2nd parameter and v1 be the value set definition for the first parameter then
In the value set definition of v2 = value $FLEX$.v1
14.   What are Summary Column, Place holder Column, and Formula Column?
A summary column performs a computation on another column's data.  Using the Report Wizard or Data Wizard, you can create the following summaries:  sum, average, count, minimum, maximum, % total.  You can also create a summary column manually in the Data Model view, and use the Property Palette to create the following additional summaries: first, last, standard deviation, variance.
A placeholder is a column for which you set the data type and value in PL/SQL that you define.  You can set the value of a placeholder column in the following places. A place holder column stores a value which we can refer in the layout.
A formula column performs a user-defined computation on another column(s) data, including placeholder columns. Formula columns should not be used to set values for parameters.
15.   How do u hide fields in a Report?
    Ans: Using the Format Trigger we can hide the fields.
/* Suppose that you are building a master/detail report
** and, if no detail records are retrieved for a master
** record, you do not want the boilerplate labels to
** appear.  To do this, you first create a summary
** column called MYCOUNT with a Function of Count in
** the source group of the master repeating frame. 
** In the format trigger for the group frame that
** surrounds the detail repeating frame and its labels,
** you enter the following:
*/
function my_formtrig return BOOLEAN is
begin
if :mycount = 0 then
   return (false);
else
   return (true);
end if;
end;
16.   What kinds of reports u have worked on?
17.   Name Custom Reports and…--------------------------------------
18.   How many types of Report formats we have?
Custom Reports and Standard reports
19.   What is the minimum number of groups required for a Matrix type report?
To create a matrix report, you need at least four groups: one group must be a cross-product group, two of the groups must be within the cross-product group to furnish the "labels," and at least one group must provide the information to fill the cells.  The groups can belong to a single query or to multiple queries. 
 A matrix (cross tab) report contains one row of labels, one column of labels, and information in a grid format that is related to the row and column labels.  A distinguishing feature of matrix reports is that the number of columns is not known until the data is fetched from the database. 
View the video report builder help
20.   What is the difference between Bitmap and Character based reports? Explain in detail.
Bitmap vs. Character-Mode Report Design   
   Here is an example to help explain how Oracle Reports are designed and    printed in both the bitmap and character-mode environments.    
   Assume you wish to print "Cc" where "C" is a different font and a larger point size than "c" and is in boldface type (where "c" is not).    
   In Oracle Reports Designer, bitmap mode, you can make "C" bold and in a     different font and point size than "c".  This is because you are generating postscript output.  Postscript is a universal printer language and any postscript printer is able to interpret your different design instructions.  
    In Oracle Reports Designer, character mode, the APPLICATIONS STANDARDS EQUIRE the report to be designed in ONE FONT/ ONE CHARACTER SIZE.  Character mode reports generate ASCII output.  In ASCII you cannot dynamically change the font and character size. The standard is in effect so a report prints as identically as possible from both conventional and postscript printers.     
   Bitmap vs. Character-Mode Report Printing
   These sequences contrast the two printing environments. In postscript, "C" can be in a different font and point size than "c".  Both or either could also be bold, for example.    
    In ASCII, "C" must be in the same font and character size as "c".  Both or either could also be bold, for example.    
    Oracle Reports    
Designer   
   |   
   |            |-----        ar20runb ------         Postscript ----          Postscript 
---            "Cc"   
   |            |               executable               language  printer        output   
   |            |   
  "Cc"---   
               |   
               |   
               |-----        ar20run    ----*--      ASCII 
---------    Printer ------            "cc"   
                               executable  |            characters                                              output   
                                                  |   
                                                  |   
                                              SRW driver   
                                              (for bold, underline,   
                                              page break escape sequences)   
  
21.   What Printer Styles are used for? Did you develop any printer styles?
Srw.driver
22.   How do you fix a performance problem in a Report?
Check Report main query and fine tune it.
Create indexes on columns used in where condition (eliminate full table scan)
Enable Trace(set trace on in before report and set trace off in after report)
Before Report:
    srw.do_sql('alter session set sql_trace=true');
After Report:
srw.do_sql('alter session set sql_trace=false');
Trace file will be generated at location:
select value from v$parameter
 where name = 'user_dump_dest';
To better see execution plans in a trace file, you need to format the
generated trace file with tkprof statement.

23.   What is the significance of  p_conc_request_id?
P_conc_request_id is declared as the user parameter for reports which will get org specific data.  P_conc_request_id datatype is character and length is 15.
24.   How to call a stored procedure in the report? What is the use of that?
Package.prcedure
25.   The differences between forms 4.5 and forms 6i?
26.   How do you set ORG_ID in a SQL*Plus session?
Call the Below Anonymous pl/sql block.
BEGIN
                        fnd_client_info.set_org_context(‘204');
            END;
           
            Or
                       
            exec dbms_application_info.set_client_info(‘org_id’);
27.   The differences between reports 2.5 and 6i?
28.   While registering a report and a pl/sql block we pass some parameters, for any pl/sql block we pass two additional parameters. Can u list them?
p_errorcode and p_errorbuffer as out parameters in main procedure.
It requires 2 IN parameters for a PL/SQL procedure that's registered as a concurrent program in Apps.  They are
1. errcode  IN  VARCHAR2
2. errbuff    IN  VARCHAR2

29.   How we can call from form to form, form to report?
Calling a Form from another Form:  FND_EXECUTE(…);
NOTE: The calling and called Forms must be registered with Applications.
Calling a Report from a Form: FND_REQUEST.SUBMIT_REQUEST(…);
NOTE: This method can be used to call any concurrent program.
30.   What are logical page and physical page?
In the Runtime Previewer, you can scroll though a single page of report output, page through the entire report, and split the screen to view different sections of the same report concurrently.
A physical page (or panel) is the size of a page that will be output by your printer.  A logical page is the size of one page of your actual report (it can be any number of physical pages wide or long).  The Runtime Previewer displays the logical pages of your report output, one at a time.
31.   Why is ref cursor is used in the reports?
Dynamic cursor
32.   When we create a report we use the tables, there is some difference when we use the multi-org tables and ordinary tables, can u tell the difference?
Set p_conc_request_id for org specific tables.
33.   What is a template and what is its use. We have predefined template and we can define user-defined template. Can u tell why we use the user-defined template?

34.   I moved this field into that repeating frame, but I’m still getting a” frequency below its group” error?

35.   I must put a repeating frame around these fields. How do I do this easily?
36.   I switched the page size to 11 x 8.5, but the printer still prints in Portrait?
37.   We have 2 different databases, and each system has 2 tables. Know there is a link provided between them. The client want a report to be developed based on the 4 tables that r there in the 2 different databases. The solution must be efficient?
Use database links

https://www.oracleappsguy.com/2011/07/oracle-reports-interview-questions.htm

1. How many different layouts are available in Reports?

Ans: There are eight different layout formats:
1. Tabular
2. Form Like
3. Form Letter
4. Mailing Label
5. Group Left
6. Group Above
7. Matrix
8. Matrix with group

2. How many different triggers are available in Report?

Ans: There are five types of triggers in report 6i
1) Before report trigger
2) After report trigger
3) Before Parameter trigger
4) After parameter trigger
5) Between pages trigger
  
3.What is the Firing sequence of report trigger?

Ans: The reports triggers are fired in the following sequence.

*Before Parameter Form
* After Parameter Form
* Before Report
* Between Pages
* After Report

4. What is the difference between After Parameter Trigger and Before Report Trigger?

Ans:
After parameter Trigger: It will fire after the parameter form is displayed.here we can do validation on parameter values.

Before Report Trigger: It will fire before the report is executed and after the query is parsed and date is fetched.

5. What is the Format Trigger?

Ans: Format Trigger is a PL/SQL function. This trigger is going to fire before an object is printed in report output. it return boolean-true then go to print -false then don't print.

6. What happens when Flex mode is on ?

When flex mode is on, reports automatically resizes the parent when the child is resized.

7. What happens when confine mode on ?

When confine mode is on, the object cannot be moved outside its parent in the layout. 

8. What is a lexical parameter?

Lexical Parameter is used to replace the where, order by conditions at run time.

9. What are bind variables?

Bind variables are used in oracle reports  for replacing the single parameter in the select statement.

10. What is the minimum number of groups required for a matrix report?

The minimum of groups required for a matrix report are 4

11. What is the use of an Anchor in Reports?

Anchor is used to make fixed distance between two objects in Reports Layout.

12. What is the difference between Frame and Repeating Frame?

Frames are used to surround other objects and protect them from being overwritten or pushed by other objects. For example a frame might be used to surround all objects owned by a group to surround column headings or to surround summaries.

When you default the layout for a report Report Builder creates frames around report objects as needed; you can also create a frame manually in the Layout Model view.

Repeating frames surround all of the fields that are created for a group’s columns. The repeating frame prints (is fired) once for each record of the group. 

When you default the layout for a report Report Builder creates repeating frames around fields as needed; you can also create a repeating frame manually in the Layout Model view.

13. What are different types of column in reports?

There are three types of columns in Oracle report:
1) Placeholder Column: Placeholder column is used to store a value for a variable.
2) Formula Column:  Used For doing mathematical calculations and returning one value
3) Summary Column: The summary columns perform aggregate functions such as SUM, COUNT, MAX, MIN, AVG, and the like.

14. Can u have more than one layout in report?

It is possible to have more than one layout in a report by using the additional layout option in the layout editor.


1.What are the various types of reports ?

There are 8 Types of reports in oracle report.

1.Tabular
2. Form Like
3. Form Letter
4. Mailing Label
5. Group Left
6. Group Above
7. Matrix
8. Matrix with group




2. What are Anchors in Oracle Reports?

An anchor defines the relative position of an object to the object to which it is anchored. Anchors are used to determine the vertical and horizontal positioning of a child object relative to its parent. Since the size of some layout objects may change when the report runs (and data is actually fetched), you need anchors to define where you want objects to appear relative to one another.

3. What are the various types of anchors in Reports ?

A There are two types of anchors in Oracle Reports:
* implicit (anchors that Oracle Reports creates when a report is run)
* explicit (anchors you create)

4. What is an Implicit Anchor?

Implicit Anchors : At runtime, Oracle Reports generates an implicit anchor for each layout object that does not already have an explicit anchor. It determines for each layout object which objects, if any, can overwrite it, then creates an anchor from the layout object to the closest object that can overwrite it. This prevents the object from being overwritten. The implicit anchor functionality saves you from having to define the positioning of each object. Implicit anchors are not visible in the Layout editor. However, you can specify that the Object Navigator display anchoring information using the Object Navigator Options dialog.


5. What is an Explicit Anchor?


Explicit Anchors : Create an anchor in the Layout editor by clicking on the Anchor tool, dragging from one edge of the child to the one of the parent's edges, then specifying the anchor's properties in its property sheet. Any anchor you create for an object will override its implicit anchoring. Explicit anchors are always visible in the Layout editor unless you specify otherwise via the Layout Options dialog
6. What are the various report triggers ? What is their order of firing ?

A There are eight report triggers. Of these there are five global triggers called the Report Triggers. They are fired in the following order :
* Before Parameter Form
* After Parameter Form
* Before Report
* Between Pages
* After Report

7. Apart from the global report triggers what are the other triggers used in Oracle Reports?

Apart from the Five Global Report Triggers, there are three other types of triggers :

* Validation Triggers
* Format Triggers
* Action Triggers


8. What is Before Form Trigger? What is the importance of Before Form Trigger?

Before Form : It Fires before the Runtime Parameter Form is displayed. Using this trigger, you can access and change the values of parameters, PL/SQL global variables, and report-level columns. (Note : If the Runtime Parameter Form is suppressed, this trigger still fires. Consequently, you can use this trigger for validation of command line parameters).

9. What is After Form Trigger? What is the importance of After Form Trigger? 

After Form : It Fires after the Runtime Parameter Form is displayed. Using this trigger, you can access parameters and check their values. This trigger can also be used to change parameter values or, if an error occurs, return to the Runtime Parameter Form. Columns from the data model are not accessible from this trigger. (Note : If the Runtime Parameter Form is suppressed, the After Form trigger still fires. Consequently, you can use this trigger for validation of command line parameters or other data).

10. What is Before Report Trigger? What is the importance of Before Report Trigger? 

Before Report : Fires before the report is executed but after queries are parsed and data is fetched.

11. What is Between Pages Trigger? What is the importance of Between Pages Trigger?Between Pages : Fires before each page of the report is formatted, except the very first page. This trigger can be used for customized page formatting. (Note : In the Previewer, this trigger only fires the first time that you go to a page. If you subsequently return to the page, the trigger does not fire again.)
12. What is After Report Trigger? What is the importance of After Report Trigger?
After Report : Fires after you exit the Previewer, or after report output is sent to a specified destination, such as a file, a printer, or an Oracle*Mail userid. This trigger can be used to clean up any initial processing that was done, such as deleting tables. Note, however, that this trigger always fires, whether or not your report completed successfully.

13. What is Validation Trigger? What is the importance of Validation  Trigger?
Validation Triggers : Validation Triggers are PL/SQL functions that are executed when parameter values are specified on the command line and when you accept the Runtime Parameter Form. (Notice that this means each Validation Trigger may fire twice when you execute the report). Validation Triggers are also used to validate the Initial Value of the parameter in the Parameter property sheet.

14. What is Format Trigger? What is the importance of Format Trigger?Format Triggers : Format Triggers are PL/SQL functions executed before the object is formatted. The trigger can be used to dynamically change the formatting attributes of the object.

15. What is Action Trigger? What is the importance of Action Trigger?
Action Triggers : Action Triggers are PL/SQL procedures executed when a button is selected in the Previewer. The trigger can be used to dynamically call another report (drill down) or execute any other PL/SQL.




1. What are Placeholder Columns ?

A placeholder is a "dummy" column for which you can conditionally set the datatype and value via PL/SQL or a user exit. Placeholder columns are useful when you want to selectively populate a column with a value (e.g., each time the nth record is fetched, or each time a record is fetched containing a specific value, etc.).



2. What are the various Module Types in Reports ?


A You can build three types of modules with Oracle Reports:


* external queries, which are ANSI-standard SQL SELECT statements that can be referenced by modules


* external PL/SQL libraries, which are collections of PL/SQL source code that can be referenced by modules


* reports, which are collections of report-level objects and references to external queries and PL/SQL libraries (optional) that can be referenced by modules



3. What are Physical and Logical pages in Reports ?


A report page can have any length and any width. Because printer pages may be smaller or larger than your report's "page," the concept of physical and logical pages is used.



Physical Page : A physical page (or panel) is the size of a page that will be output by your printer.


Logical Page : A logical page is the size of one page of your actual report; one logical page may be made up of multiple physical pages. The Previewer displays the logical pages of your report output, one at a time.

4. What are the various page layout sections in Oracle Reports ?


A report has three sections : 
  • the report header pages, 
  • report body/margin pages, 
  • and report trailer pages.
5. What are various types of parameters ?


There are two types of parameters:

  •  default (system parameters)
  •  user-created (bind and lexical parameters)
6. How do you reference parameters and columns in reports ?


There are two ways to reference a parameter in Oracle reports:


* As bind references

* As lexical references


7. What are Bind Referencing and Lexical Referencing ?


Bind Referencing : Bind references are used to replace a single value in SQL or PL/SQL, such as a character string, number, or date. Use bind reference when you want the parameter to substitute only one value at runtime. Specifically, bind references may be used to replace expressions in SELECT, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING, CONNECT BY, and START WITH clauses of queries.



Lexical Referencing : Lexical references are placeholders for text that you embed in a SELECT statement. Use Lexical reference when you want the parameter to substitute multiple values at runtime. You can use lexical references to replace the clauses appearing after SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING, CONNECT BY, and START WITH.


8. What are the Types of Matrix report ?


 1. Single query 
 2. Multi query
 3. Nested Query 
 4. Matrix Break

9. What are widow lines ?

Widow lines are the minimum number of lines of the boilerplate text or field that should appear on the logical page where the text starts to print. If the number of lines specified for this property cannot fit on the logical page, then all lines of the boilerplate are moved to the next page.


10. What are widow records ?

Widow records are the minimum number of instances (records) that should appear on the logical page where the repeating frame starts to print. If the number of instances specified for this property cannot fit on the logical page where the repeating frame is initially triggered to print, then the repeating frame will start formatting on the next page.

11. What is 'page protect' property for objects ?

 Page protect property for an object indicates whether to try to keep the entire object and its contents on the same logical page. Checking Page Protect means that if the contents of the object cannot fit on the current logical page, the object and all of its contents will be moved to the next logical page.

12. What is the 'Print Condition Type' property ?

'Print Condition Type' property specifies the frequency with which you want the object to appear in the report. The Print Condition Type options indicate the logical page(s) on which the object should be triggered to print with regard to the Print Condition Object.

13. What is the 'Print Condition Object' property ?

'Print Condition Object' property specifies the object on which to base the Print Condition Type of the current object. For example, if you specify a Print Condition Type of All and a Print Condition Object of Anchoring Object, the current object will be triggered to print on every logical page on which its anchoring object (parent object) appears.

14. What are the various values of the 'Print Condition Object' property in Reports ?

The various values are :

  • Anchoring Object : Anchoring Object is the parent object to which the current object is implicitly or explicitly anchored.
  • Enclosing Object : Enclosing Object is the object that encloses the current object.
15. What is the horizontal of vertical sizing property of objects ?

Horizontal of vertical sizing property specifies how the horizontal or vertical size of the object may change at runtime to accommodate the objects or data within it.


1.What are the various values of the horizontal of vertical sizing property ?

The various values are :
Contract : Contract means the vertical size of the object decreases, if the formatted objects or data within it are short enough, but it cannot increase to a height greater than that shown in the editor. Note : Truncation of data may occur. (You can think of this option as meaning "only contract, do not expand.")

Expand : Expand means the vertical size of the object increases, if the formatted objects or data within it are tall enough, but it cannot decrease to a height less than that shown in the editor. (You can think of this option as meaning "only expand, do not contract.")

Fixed : Fixed means the height of the object is the same on each logical page, regardless of the size of the objects or data within it. Note : Truncation of data may occur. The height of the object is defined to be its height in the editor.

Variable : Variable means the object may expand or contract vertically to accommodate the objects or data within it (with no extra space), which means the height shown in the editor has no effect on the object's height at runtime.

2. How do you display a message in reports ?

Using SRW.Message

3. What are the various values of 'Print Panel Order' property of report ?

The various values are :
  • Across/Down : Across/Down means the physical pages of the report body will print left-to-right then top-to-bottom.
  • Down/Across : Down/Across means the physical pages of the report body will print top-to-bottom and then left-to-right.
4. What is the 'Print Direction' Property of Repeating frames ?

'Print Direction' Property specifies the direction in which successive instances of the repeating frame appear.

5. What are the various values of the 'Print Direction' Property of Repeating frames ?
Following are the various values :
  • Across : Across means that each instance of the repeating frame subsequent to the first instance is printed to the right of the previous instance across the logical page.
  • Across/Down : Across/Down means that each instance of the repeating frame subsequent to the first instance is printed to the right of the previous instance until an entire instance cannot fit between the previous instance and the right margin of the logical page. At that time, Oracle Reports prints the instance below the left-most instance on the logical page, provided there is enough vertical space left on the logical page for the instance to print completely.
  • Down : Down means that each instance of the repeating frame subsequent to the first instance is printed below the previous instance down the logical page.
  • Down/Across : Down/Across means that each instance of the repeating frame subsequent to the first instance is printed below the previous instance until an entire instance cannot fit inside the bottom margin of the logical page. At that time, Oracle Reports prints the instance to the right of the topmost instance on the logical page, provided there is enough horizontal space left on the logical page for the instance to print completely.
6. What is the 'Keep with Anchoring Object' object property ?

'Keep with Anchoring Object' object property indicates whether to keep an object and the object to which it is anchored on the same logical page. Checking Keep with Anchoring Object means that if the object, its anchoring object, or both cannot fit on the logical page, they will be moved to the next logical page.

7. What is 'Page Break Before' object property ?

'Page Break Before' object property indicates that you want the object to be formatted on the page after the page on which it is initially triggered to print. Note that this does not necessarily mean that all the objects below the object with Page Break Before will move to the next page.

8. What is 'Page Break After' object property ?

'Page Break After' object property indicates that you want all children of the object to be moved to the next page. In other words, any object that is a child object of an anchor (implicit or explicit) to this object will be treated as if it has Page Break Before set. Note that this does not necessarily mean that all the objects below the object with Page Break After will move to the next page.

9. What is the 'Break Order' property of columns ?

The 'Break Order' property is the order in which to display the column's values. This property applies only to columns that identify distinct values of user-created groups (i.e., break groups). The order of column values in a default group is determined by the ORDER BY clause of the query. For column values in user-created groups, however, you must use Break Order to specify how to order the break column's values.

10. What are the various types of links ?

The Data Link tool draws a link between a parent group and a child query. Creating a link is a drag and drop operation. Clicking and dragging from one column to another creates a link between those two columns (column to column link). Clicking and dragging from one query to another creates all possible links between columns selected by the queries based on database constraints (query to query link). Clicking and dragging between two groups creates a group-to-group link (i.e., a link with no columns).

11. Name some of the procedures in the SRW package ?

* SRW.Message, SRW.User_Exit, SRW.Do_Sql, SRW.Run_Report

12. What are the various report layout regions ?
 There are three report regions in the Layout editor :
  •  header
  •  body/margin
  •  trailer
13. In Brief Describe the various report layout regions?

Header : The report header pages appear once at the beginning of each report on a set of separate pages. They can contain text, graphics, data, and computations.

Body/Margin : The body/margin pages appear between the header and trailer pages, and are the bulk of the report. Each physical page in this section consists of a body and a margin. The body contains the majority of the report's text, graphics, data, and computations.
A top and bottom margin appear on each page, until all data within the body has been formatted. A margin may include text, graphics, page numbers, page totals, and grand totals. The default margin size is one half inch each for the top and bottom margins and zero for the left and right margins.

Trailer : The report trailer pages appear once at the end of each report on a set of separate pages. They can contain text, graphics, data, and computations.

14. What is more efficient : Maximum rows or Group Filter ?

Maximum Rows in the Query property sheet restricts the number of records fetched by the query. A group filter determines which records to include and which records to exclude. Since Maximum Rows actually restricts the amount of data retrieved, it is faster than a group filter in most cases. If you are using a Filter of Last or Conditional, Oracle Reports must retrieve all of the records in the group before applying the filter criteria. As a result, Maximum Rows or a Filter of First is faster.


1. What is SRW Package? 
The Report builder Built in package know as SRW Package (Sql Report Writer) This package extends reports, Control report execution, output message at runtime, Initialize layout fields, Perform DDL statements used to create or Drop temporary table, Call User Exit, to format width of the columns, to page break the column, to set the colors Ex: SRW.DO_SQL, It’s like DDL command, we can create table, views, etc.

2. What is SRW package and some procedures in SRW?
It is the standard reports package and it has many procedures like USER_EXITS, DO_SQL, RUN_REPORT, MESSAGE,TRACE, BREAK, SET_ATTR.

3. Where in reports do you set the context information (like org_id)?
SRW.INIT

4. What is User Parameters?
Parameter, which is created by user. For to restrict values with where clause in select statement. We can use Lovs in  user parameter with static and Dynamic Select Statement.

5. What is System Parameters?
These are built-in parameters provided by Oracle corporation.
BACKGROUND: Is whether the report should run in the foreground or the background.
COPIES Is the number of report copies that should be made when the report is printed.
CURRENCY Is the symbol for the currency indicator (e.g., " $?).
DECIMAL Is the symbol for the decimal indicator (e.g., ".").
DESFORMAT Is the definition of the output device's format (e.g., landscape mode for a printer). This parameter is used when running a report in a character-mode environment, and when sending a bitmap report to a file (e.g. to create PDF or HTML output).
DESNAME Is the name of the output device (e.g., the file name, printer's name, mail userid).
DESTYPE Is the type of device to which to send the report output (screen, file, mail, printer, or
Screen using PostScript format).
MODE Is whether the report should run in character mode or bitmap.
ORIENTATION Is the print direction for the report (landscape, portrait, default).
PRINTJOB Is whether the Print Job dialog box should appear before the report is run.
THOUSANDS Is the symbol for the thousand's indicator (e.g., ",").

6. How can you print barcodes in oracle reports?
By installing the Barcode Font and using the Chart field in the Layout.

7. What are Format triggers?
Format triggers enable you to modify the display of objects dynamically at run time or to suppress display altogether for Headings, repeating frames, field and boilerplate object. Example:
i) To format the max (Sal) for particular department.
ii) To format the Sal column with a Dollar ($) prefix.
iii) To format Date formats….etc

8. What is Data Model?
Data Model is logical group of the Report Objects through query and Data model tools. Once query is compiled report automatically generates group. The queries build the groups and then Groups are used to populate the report. The only function of queries in report is to create the groups. The Report Editor's Data Model view enables you to define and modify the data model objects for a report. 
9. How do you call a concurrent program or another report from a report?
We can use FND_SUBMIT.REQUEST() to call a concurrent program from a report. Use SRW.RUN_REPORT() to run a report directly without registering it as a concurrent program.

10. What is Layout model?
Layout Model is to physically arrange Data model group objects on the Report. The Report Editor's Layout Model view enables you to define and modify the layout model objects for a report. In this view, objects and their property settings are represented symbolically to highlight their types and relationships.

11. What is Live Previewer? 
The Live Previewer is a work area in which you can preview your report and manipulate the actual or live data at the same time. In the Live Previewer you can customize reports interactively, meaning that you can see the results immediately as you make each change.
To activate buttons in the Live Previewer, you must display the report output in the Runtime Previewer. In order to edit your report, such as changing column size, move columns, align columns insert page numbers, edit text, change colors, change fonts set format masks, insert field the Live Previewer must be in Flex Mode.

12. What is Parameter Form 
The Parameter Form view is the work area in which you define the format of the report's Runtime Parameter Form. To do this, you define and modify parameter form objects (fields and boilerplate).When you run a report, Report Builder uses the Parameter Form view as a template for the Runtime Parameter Form. Fields and boilerplate appear in the Runtime Parameter Form exactly as they appear in the Parameter Form view. If you do not define a Runtime Parameter Form in the Parameter Form view, Report Builder displays a default Parameter Form for you at runtime.

13. What are user exits in reports and name a few?
User exits provided a way to pass control from Reports Builder to a program you have written, which performs some function, and then returns control to Reports Builder. Ex: SRW.DO_SQL, SRW.USER_EXIT.

14. What is Group?
Groups are created to organize the columns in your report. When you create a query, Report Builder automatically creates a group that contains the columns selected by the query. You create additional groups to produce break levels in the report, either manually or by using the Report Wizard to create a group above or group left report.

15. What is Template? 
Templates define common characteristics and objects that you want to apply to multiple reports. For example, you can define a template that includes the company logo and sets fonts and colors for selected areas of a report.
Creation of Template: In Report editor , open a existing Template or Create a new Template and save it concerned directory. Then Edit CAGPREFS.ORA File , and Specify which type of Template are u going to develop.
Ex. Tabular, form, matrix Then give your developed template *.tdf file name.
Develop Report with Newly developed Template.

16. How can you display one record per page?
Set Repeating Frame Properties : Maximum records per page=1 And it will override group filter property.

18. What are the Non_query fields?
Following are the non_query fields:
Aggregated Information, 
Calculated information, 
A string Function

19. How Can I highlight and change all the format masks and print conditions of a bunch of fields all at once?
If you want to highlight a bunch of objects then right click and select "properties", Oracle gives you a stacked set of the individual properties forms for each of the selected objects. While this may be useful for some objects, it requires changing values individually for each object. However, you can select the group of fields and then select "Common properties" from the "Tools" menu which will allow you to set the format mask , print conditions etc. for the whole set of objects at once.


1.What is the difference between Conditional Formatting and format trigger?
Both provide the similar functionality. They are used to format the output based on particular conditions. Format triggers provide a wide variety of options when compared to conditional formatting(GUI). In format Triggers we have the option to write PL/SQL code where as conditional formatting is GUI based which provide limited options.


2.What is Flex mode and Confine mode?
Confine mode
On: child objects cannot be moved outside their enclosing parent objects.
Off: child objects can be moved outside their enclosing parent objects.
Flex mode:
On: parent borders "stretch" when child objects are moved against them. 


4. What is Page Break? 
To limit the records per page.


5. What is Page Protector property in oracle reports ?
The Page Protect property indicates whether to try to keep the entire object and its contents on the same logical page. Setting Page Protect to Yes means that if the contents of the object cannot fit on the current logical page, the object and all of its contents will be moved to the next logical page. Ex: if you set yes, the object information prints another page.

6.How do you mail the output of a report?
You can use following methogs to mail the output of a report. 
1. Use UTL_SMTP (refer to Scripts tab for more details) 
2. Use MAILX called in a shell script registered as a concurrent program with parameters File name and path.


7. What is Print Direction? 
The Print Direction property is the direction in which successive instances of the repeating frame appear.


8. What is Vertical and Horizental Elasticity
The Horizontal Elasticity property is determins how the horizontal size of the object will change at runtime to accommodate the objects or data within it:


9. What is Formula Column?
A formula column performs a user-defined computation on another column(s) data, including placeholder columns.


10. How do you display only one record on each page in a report?
Give Page Break in the Format trigger of the repeating frame.


11. What is Summary columns? 
A summary column performs a computation on another column's data. Using the Report Wizard or Data Wizard, you can create the following summaries: sum, average, count, minimum, maximum, % total. You can also create a summary column manually in the Data Model view, and use the Property Palette to create the following additional summaries: first, last, standard deviation, variance.


12. What is Boilerplate? 
Boilerplate is any text or graphics that appear in a report every time it is run. Report Builder will create one boilerplate object for each label selected in the Report Wizard (it is named B_
Column name). Also, one boilerplate object is sometimes created for each report summary. A boilerplate object is owned by the object surrounding it, unless otherwise noted.


13. What is Data Link
When we join multiple queries in a report the join condition is stored in the data link section
Data links relates the results of multiple queries. A data link (or parent-child relationship) causes the child query to be executed once for each instance of its parent group. When you create a data link in the Data Model view of your report, Report Builder constructs a clause (as specified in the link's Property Palette) that will be added to the child query's SELECT statement at runtime. You can view the SELECT statements for the individual parent and child queries in the Builder, but can not view the SELECT statement that includes the clause created by the data link you define.


14. What is Break Column? 
We can break a column through data model , it is Displayed once for a group


15. How can you grey out/ highlight /hide some records based on conditions in a report?
You can use Conditional formatting to achieve it.


16. How do u call Report from form? 
Use RUN_PRODUCT and RUN_REPORT_OBJECT to call a report from Oracle Forms.


17. What is Report Bursting?The capability of producing multiple copies of a given report or portion of it in different output formats is referred to as report bursting. Reports bursting offers you to deliver a single report to multiple destinations simultaneously. It offers you to create multiple reports out of one single report model. For example, you can create just one employee report for all your departments and send an email with a PDF-attachment containing the report to each manager. Each report would contain only the relevant department information for that particular manager. Using the reports bursting functionality will reduce the overhead since you will only have a single data fetch and report format.

18. What is Additional Layout?
Additional layout is created for two different formats using same query and groups without modifying default layout created by report wizard., we can use both layouts according to user requirement.


19. How do you write the report output to Excel file or text file?
You can use the following methods to write the output of oracle reports to Excel or text file. 
1.Use TEXT_IO package 
2.Use SPOOL in After Report trigger 
3.Use UTL Package

http://programmer2programmer.net/tips/interview_question/oracle/oracle_reports_interview_questions_answers.aspx

1. What are the different file extensions that are created by oracle reports?
.Rep file and .Rdf file.
2. From which designation is it preferred to send the output to the printed?
Previewer
3. Is it possible to disable the parameter from while running the report?
Yes
4. What is lexical reference?How can it be created?
Lexical reference is place_holder for text that can be embedded in a sql statements. A lexical reference can be created using & before the column or parameter name.
5. What is bind reference and how can it carate?
Bind reference are used to replace the single value in sql,pl/sql statements a bind reference can be careated using a (:) before a column or a parameter name.
6. What use of command line parameter cmd file?
It is a command line argument that allows you to specify a file that contain a set of arguments for r20run.
7. Where is a procedure return in an external pl/sql library executed at the client or at the server?
At the client.
8. Where is the external query executed at the client or the server?
At the server.
9. What are the default parameter that appear at run time in the parameter screen?
Destype and Desname.
10. Which parameter can be used to set read level consistency across multiple queries?
Read only.
11. What is term?
The term is terminal definition file that describes the terminal form which you are using r20run.
12. What is use of term?
The term file which key is correspond to which oracle report functions.
13. Is it possible to insert comments into sql statements return in the data model editor?
Yes
14. If the maximum record retrieved property of the query is set to 10 then a summary value will be calculated?
Only for 10 records.
15. What are the sql clauses supported in the link property sheet?
Where startwith having.
16. To execute row from being displayed that still use column in the row which property can be used?
Format trigger.
17. Is it possible to set a filter condition in a cross product group in matrix reports?
No
18. If a break order is set on a column would it effect columns which are under the column?
No
19. With which function of summary item is the compute at options required?
percentage of total functions.
20. What is the purpose of the product order option in the column property sheet?
To specify the order of individual group evaluation in a cross products.
21. Can a formula column be obtained through a select statement?
Yes
22. Can a formula column refered to columns in higher group?
Yes
23. How can a break order be created on a column in an existing group?
By dragging the column outside the group.
24. What are the types of calculated columns available?
Summary, Formula, Placeholder column.
25. What is the use of place holder column?
A placeholder column is used to hold a calculated values at a specified place rather than allowing is to appear in the actual row where it has to appeared.
26. What is the use of hidden column?
A hidden column is used to when a column has to embedded into boilerplate text.
27. What is the use of break group?
A break group is used to display one record for one group ones.While multiple related records in other group can be displayed.
28. If two groups are not linked in the data model editor, what is the hierarchy between them?
Two group that is above are the left most rank higher than the group that is to right or below it.
29. The join defined by the default data link is an outer join yes or no?
Yes
30. How can a text file be attached to a report while creating in the report writer?
By using the link file property in the layout boiler plate property sheet.
31. Can a repeating frame be careated without a data group as a base?
No
32. Can a field be used in a report wihtout it appearing in any data group?
Yes
33. For a field in a repeating frame, can the source come from the column which does not exist in the data group which forms the base for the frame?
Yes
34. Is it possible to center an object horizontally in a repeating frame that has a variable horizontal size?
Yes
35. If yes,how?
By the use anchors.
36. What are the two repeating frame always associated with matrix object?
One down repeating frame below one across repeating frame.
37. Is it possible to split the printpreviewer into more than one region?
Yes
38. Does a grouping done for objects in the layout editor affect the grouping done in the datamodel editor?
No
39. How can a square be drawn in the layout editor of the report writer?
By using the rectangle tool while pressing the (Constraint) key.
40. To display the page no. for each page on a report what would be the source & logical page no. or & of physical page no.?
physical page no.
41. What does the term panel refer to with regard to pages?
A panel is the no. of physical pages needed to print one logical page.
42. What is an anchoring object & what is its use?
An anchoring object is a print condition object which used to explicitly or implicitly anchor other objects to itself.
43. What is a physical page? & what is a logical page?
A physical page is a size of a page. That is output by the printer. The logical page is the size of one page of the actual report as seen in the Previewer.

44. What is the frame & repeating frame?
A frame is a holder for a group of fields. A repeating frame is used to display a set of records when the no. of records that are to displayed is not known before.



1. What are the types of layouts in reports?

There are 8 default layout style provided.
a) Tabular - It is the most basic type of report where each column corresponds to a column selected from the database.

b) Form-like - It is a report one record per page. The field value is placed to the field labels.

c) Mailing Label - A mailing label report prints mailing labels in multiple columns on each page. The printing can be a landscape or a portrait.

d) Form Letter - A Form letter report contains database values embedded into any text that is entered or imported into the report editor.

e) Group Left - A group left report divides the rows of a table into sets, based on a common value in one of the columns. This style is used to restrict a column from repeating the same value several times while values of related columns change.

f) Group Above - A group above repot contains two or more groups of data. For every value of the master group, the related values of the detail group(s) are fetched from the database.

g) Matrix - A matrix (cross tab) report contain one row of tables, one column of labels and information in a grid format that is related to the row and column labels.
A distinguished feature of matrix report is that the number of columns is not known until the data is fetched from the database.

To create a matrix report, at least four groups are required. One group must be a cross-product group, two of the groups must be within the cross-product group to furnish the labels, and at least one group must provide the information to fill the cells. The groups can provide to a single query or to multiple queries.

h) Matrix with Group: A matrix with group report is a group above report with a separate matrix for each value of the master group.

2. What are the different layout objects?

There are 4 types of layout objects.
a) Repeating Frames.
b) Frames.
c) Fields.
d) Boilerplate.

a) Frames: Frames surrounds other layout objects, enabling control of multiple objects 
Simultaneously, ensuring that they maintain their positions relative to each other in the report. A frame might be used to surround all objects owned by a group, to surround column labels.

b) Repeating Frames: Repeating frames act as placeholder for groups (repeating values) and present rows of data retrieved from the database. Repeating frames repeat as often as the number of rows retrieved.

c) Fields: Fields act as placeholder for column values; they define the formatting attributes for all columns displayed in the report. A field is one of the objects that can be located inside a frame or repeating frame.

d) Boilerplate: Boilerplate consists of text and graphics that appear in a report each time it is run; e.g., a label appearing above a column of data is boilerplate text. Graphics drawn in the layout as well as text added to the layout are boilerplate.

3. What is data model?

To specify the data for the report, a data model should be defined. A data model is composed of some or all of the following data definition objects.

a) Queries - Queries are ANSI-standard SQL SELECT statements that fetch data from a standard database such as Oracle, DB2 etc. These SELECT statements are fired each time the report is run.
You can select any number of queries to select data from any number of tables.

b) Groups - Groups determine the hierarchy of data appearing in the report, and are primarily used to create breaks in the report. Oracle report automatically creates a group for each query, but you are not limited to this default. You can create a new group in the data model and included a column that you want to use as the break column.

c) Column - Column contain the data values for a report. Default report columns, corresponding to the table columns included in each query's SELECT list are automatically created by the table Oracle Report, and then each column is placed in the group associated with the query that selected the column. If you want to perform summaries and computations on the database column values, you can create new columns. You can also reassign one or more columns to a group you've created.

d) Parameters - Parameters are visible for your reports that enable you to change selection criteria at runtime. Oracle Report automatically creates a set of system parameters at runtime, but you can create your own as well. You can create parameters to replace either single literal values or entire expressions in any part of a query. You can reference parameters elsewhere in the report, such as in PL/SQL constructs providing conditional logic for the report.

e) Data Link - Data link are used to establish parent-child relationship between queries and groups via column matching.

4. What is anchor?

Anchors fasten an edge of one object to an edge of another object, ensuring that they maintain their relative positions. For example, you can anchor boilerplate text to the edge of a variable-sized repeating frame, guaranteeing the boilerplate's distance and position in relation to the repeating frame, no matter how the frame's size might change.

5. What types of triggers are there in report?

As a general rule, any processing that will affect the data retrieved by the report should
be performed in the Before Parameter Form and After Parameter Form trigger.(These are the two report trigger that fire before anything is parsed or fetched). There are five global report triggers. You cannot create new global report triggers. The trigger names indicate at point trigger fires:

1. Before Report: Fires before the report is executed but after queries are parsed.

2. After Report: Fires after you exit the Previewed, or after report output is sent to a specified destination, such as a file, a printer, or an Oracle Office userid. This trigger can be used to clean up any initial processing that was done, such as deleting tables. Note,
however, that this trigger always fires, whether or not your report completed successfully.

3. Between Pages: Fires before each page of the report is formatted, except the very first page. This trigger can be used for customized page formatting. In the Previewer, this trigger only fires the first time that you go to page. If you subsequently
return to the page, the trigger does not fire again.

4. Before Parameter Form: Fires before the Runtime Parameter Form is displayed. From this trigger, you can access and change the values of parameters, PL/SQL global variables, and report-level columns. If the Runtime Parameter Form is suppressed, this trigger still fires. Consequently, you can use this trigger for validation of command line parameters.

5. After Parameter Form: Fires after the Runtime Parameter Form is displayed. From this trigger, you can access parameters and check their values. This trigger can also be used to change parameter values or, if an error occurs, return to the Runtime Parameter Form. Columns from the data model are not accessible from this trigger. If the Runtime Parameter Form is suppressed, the After Parameter Form trigger still fires. Consequently, you can use this trigger for validation of command line parameters or other data.

6. What is the order of execution of report trigger?

Order of execution of report trigger:
1. Before Parameter Form trigger is fired.
2. Runtime Parameters Form appears (if not suppressed).
3. After Parameters Form trigger is fired (unbless the user cancels from the Runtime  
    Parameter Form).
4. Report is "compiled".
5. Queries are parsed.
6. Before Report trigger is fired.
7. Set TRANSACTION READONLY is executed (if specified via the READONLY  
    argument or setting).
8. The report is executed and the Between Pages trigger fires for each page except the last one. (Note that data can be fetched at any time while the report is being formatted).

7. What is Group filter?

A group filter is a PL/SQL function that determines which records to include in a group, if the Filter Type property is POL/SQL. The function must return a boolean value. Depending on whether the function returns TRUE of FALSE, the current record is included or excluded from the report. You can access group filters from the Object Navigator, the Property Palette (the PL/SQL Filter property), or the PL/SQL Editor.
Definition Level: Group
On Failure: Excludes the current record from the group.

Example:

function filter_comm return boolean is
begin
  if :comm IS NOT NULL then
    if :comm < 100 then
      return(FALSE);
    else
      return(TRUE);
    end if;
  else
    return(FALSE); -- for rows with NULL commissios
  end if;
end;

8. What is Formula Column?

Formula is PL/SQL functions that populate formula or placeholder columns. You can access the PL/SQL for formulas from the Object Navigator, the PL/SQL Editor, or the Property Palette (i.e. PL/SQL Formula property). A column of data type Number can only have a formula that returns a value of data type Number. A column of data type Date can only have a formula that returns a value of data type Date. A column of data type Character can only have a formula that returns a value of datatype CHARACTER, VARCHAR, or VARCHAR2.
Definition Level: column
On Failure: No value is returned for the column.

For example1: formula for adding values
function salcomm return NUMBER is
beign
  return(:sal + :comm);
end;

For example2: formula with condition 
function calcomm return NUMBER is
  temp number;
beign
  if :comm IS NOT NULL then
    temp := :sal + :comm;
  else
    temp := :sal;
  end if;
  return(:temp);
end;

9. What is Place holder Columns?                                                 

A placeholder is a column is an empty container at design time. The placeholder can hold a value at run time has been calculated and placed in to it by pl/sql code from anther object.
You can set the value of a placeholder column is in a Before Report trigger.
Store a Temporary value for future reference. EX. Store the current max salary as records is retrieved.

10. How many types of columns are there and what are they

1. Formula columns: For doing mathematical calculations and returning one value. formulas column compute their values using PL/SQL expressions. Formula can operate on multiple values per record
(e.g.:avg_price*: quantity).
2. Summary Columns: For doing summary calculations such as summations etc.
3. Place holder Columns: These columns are useful for storing the value in a variable.

11. What is Validation trigger?

Validation trigger are PL/SQL functions that are executed when parameter values are specified on the command line and when you accept the Runtime Parameter Form. (Notice that this means each validation trigger may fire twice when you execute the report) Validation trigger are also used to validate the Initial Value property of the parameter. The function must return a boolean value.

Definition Level: parameter
On Failure: The user is return to the parameter value in the Runtime Parameter Form where they can either change it or cancel the Runtime Parameter Form.

For Example
/* this function prevent the runtime user from sending report output anywhere except a printer*/

function DESTYPEValidTrigger return boolean is
begin
  if upper(:DESTYPE) = 'PRINTER' Then
    Return(true);
  else
    Return(False);
  end if;
end;

On Failure: No value is returned for the column.

12. What is Format trigger?

Format triggers are PL/SQL functions executed before the object is formatted. The trigger can be used to dynamically change the formatting attributes of the object. The function must return a Boolean value (TRUE or FALSE). Depending on whether the function returns TRUE or FALSE, the current instance of the object is included or excluded from the report output. You can access format triggers from the Object Navigator, the Property Palette, or the PL/SQL Editor.

Definition Level: layout object
On Failure:  Excludes the current instance of the object from the output.
Format trigger example (highlighting a value)
/* suppose that you are building a banking report and would like it to indicate if a customer is overdrawn. To do so, you give the repeating frame around the customer information a format trigger that causes it to have a border only if a customer's account balance is less than 0 (or the required minimum balance). */
function my_formtrig return BOOLEAN is begin
  if: bal < 0 then
    srw.attr.mask := SRW.BORDERWIDTH_ATTR;
    srw.attr.borderwidth := 1;
    srw.set_attr (0, srw.attr);
  end if;
    return (true);
end;


13. What is Action trigger?

Action triggers are PL/SQL procedures executed when a button is selected in the Runtime Previewer. The trigger can be used to dynamically call another report (drill down) or execute any other PL/SQL. You can access action triggers from the Object Navigator, the Property Palette (PL/SQL Trigger property), or the PL/SQL Editor.

Definition Level: button

14. What is Ref cursor query?

A ref cursor query uses PL/SQL to fetch data for the report. In a ref cursor query, you specify a PL/SQL function that returns a cursor value from a cursor variable.

Definition Level: query
On Failure: No data is returned to the query.
Package with ref cursor and function example this package spec and body define a ref cursor type as well as a function that uses the ref cursor to return data. The function could be referenced from the ref cursor query, which would greatly simplify the PL/SQL in the query itself. If creating this spec and body as a stored procedure in a tool such as SQL*Plus, you would need
to use the CREATE PACKAGE and CREATE PACKAGE BODY commands. */

PACKAGE cv IS
  type comp_rec is RECORD
  (deptno number,
  ename varchar(10),
  compensation number);
  type comp_cv is REF CURSOR return comp_rec;
  function emprefc(deptno1 number) return comp_cv;
END;

PACKAGE BODY cv IS
 function emprefc(deptno1 number) return comp_cv is
 temp_cv cv.comp_cv;
 begin
   if deptno1 > 20 then
     open temp_cv for select deptno, ename, 1.25*(sal+nvl(comm,0)) compensation
     from emp where deptno = deptno1;

   else
     open temp_cv for select deptno, ename, 1.15*(sal+nvl(comm,0)) compensation
     from emp where deptno = deptno1;
 end if;
  return temp_cv;
 end;
END;

15. Can u have more than one layout in report?

Yes. Is possible to have more than one layout in a report by using the additional layout
option in the layout editor.

16. Can u run the report with out a parameter form?

Yes it is possible to run the report with out parameter form by setting the PARAM value to Null

17. What is the lock option in reports layout?

By using the lock option we cannot move the fields in the layout editor outside the frame. This is useful for maintaining the fields.

18. What is Flex?

Flex is the property of moving the related fields together by setting the flex property on.

19. What is default Unit of Measurement in Report?

Inch.

20. How many types of Parameters are available in Reports?

There are two types of Parameters available in Reports One is System Parameter and another is User Parameter.

Parameters can be used to:
• Restrict values in a WHERE clause SELECT NAME, SALES_REP_ID FROM S_CUSTOMER WHERE ID =User Parameters<a value>
• Substitute any part of select statement SELECT NAME, SALES_REP_ID FROM S_CUSTOMER
<a where clause>
• Substitute a single column or expression SELECT <a column/expression> FROM S_CUSTOMER

There are two ways to reference parameters in a query:
• Use a bind reference.
• Use a lexical reference.

21.  What are bind variables?

Variable that is used to replace a single value in SQL or PL/SQL, such as a character string, number, or date.  Specifically, bind references may be used to replace expressions in SELECT, WHERE, GROUP BY, ORDER BY, HAVING, CONNECT BY, and START WITH clauses of queries.  Bind references may not be referenced in FROM clauses or in place of reserved words or clauses.

A bind reference replaces a single value or expression. To create a bind reference in a query, prefix the parameter name with a colon (:). If the parameter object does not exist, Report Builder automatically creates it for you and displays a message. In this case, the parameter default datatype is Character, not Number.

22. Difference between Bind and Lexical parameters?

BIND VARIABLE:
-- Are used to replace a single value in sql, pl/sql
-- Bind variable may be used to replace expressions in select, where, group, order 
    by, having, connect by, start with cause of queries.
-- Bind reference may not be referenced in FROM clause (or) in place of reserved words  
    or clauses.

LEXICAL REFERENCE:
-- You can use lexical reference to replace the clauses appearing AFTER select,
     from, group by, having, connect by, start with.
-- You can’t make lexical reference in a pl/sql statement.

23. Which Procedures displays message number and text that you specify?

SRW.MESSAGE: This procedure displays a message with the message number and text that you specify.  The message is displayed in the format below.  After the message is raised and you accept it, the report execution will continue.

24. What are lexical parameters?

You can define lexical parameters in your reports. Lexical parameters can dynamically replace clauses in the Select statement in the data model and even the whole select statement=

A lexical reference replaces any part of a SELECT statement, such as column names, the FROM clause, the WHERE clause, the ORDER BY clause.
To create a lexical reference in a query, prefix the parameter name with an ampersand (&).
If the parameter object does not exist, Report Builder does not create. You must always create the parameter for a lexical reference in the Object Navigator.

Using Lexical References: Use a lexical reference to replace any clause in a SELECT statement, or even replace the entire statement.

Examples
• The following statements use lexical references to substitute parts of the query
at run time.
SELECT NAME, SALES_REP_ID FROM S_CUSTOMER &where_clause

• To specify a WHERE clause, ORDER BY clause, or both at run time (as two separate parameters).
SELECT NAME, SALES_REP_ID FROM S_CUSTOMER &where_clause1, &where_clause2

• To specify a WHERE clause, ORDER BY, or both clause at run time (as one parameter).
SELECT NAME, SALES_REP_ID FROM S_CUSTOMER &where_clause

• To specify two column names and the table name(s) at run time:
SELECT &P_CUSTNAME CUST, &P_SALESREP REP FROM &P_TABLE

Note: When you use lexical references in the SELECT list, you must, at run time, specify the same number of items of the correct datatype, as defined in the Data Model.

25. Which built-in is used to call the required Report?

Run_Product.

26. Can you pass runtime parameters from reports to a Graphics display?

Yes, you can.

27. Do you use bind references to replace reserved words or clauses?

Yes.

28. Which object you create to hold a value that end_users can change at runtime?

User Parameter.

29. Which property handles a situation where an expected parameter is not passed at runtime?

Initial Value.

30. Do you use System Parameter DESNAME to specify the destination type for output?

No.

31. Do you reference parts of the SRW Package in layout format triggers or report level trigger?

Yes, you do.

32. Do you think that you can call the contents of SRW Package form within any of the Developer tools?

No, you do no.

33. Which SRW Package Procedure is used to apply specified formatting attribute to the current layout object?

SRW.SET_ATTR.

34. In a Character Mode environment interaction with the host computer is continuous or not?

It is not continuous.

35. In a Bitmapped Mode environment interaction with the host computer is continuous or not?

It is continuous.

36. Do you think that Reports stored in the database generally execute faster than those stored in the file system?

No.

37. Is it advisable to remove the redundant frames in the layout?

Yes, it is.

38. Can you determine your own search paths for files called by Developer/2000 tools in a windows environment?

Yes, you can.

39. Which file is used in windows environment as the Performance File?

CAUPREFS.ORA.

40. Does Printer Definition file acts as a translator for the Printer?

Yes.
42. 'Reports printer definitions are stored as SQL Plus files', is this statement is true?

No.

43. Do you need to compile Printer definitions files before using them?

No you don't need.

44. Which script deletes Report's specific tables?

SRW2.DROP.SQL.

45. Does Confine mode keep child objects enclosed within their parent frames?

Yes, it is.

46. Do you think that it is possible for you as a developer to assign common properties to multiple objects?

Yes.

47. When you set page break for an object, an object that appears below it always moves to the next page.  Is it true?

No, it is false.

48. What are the categories for report level objects?

Data Model objects, Layout objects, Parameter Form.

49. Is an external query a collection of PL/SQL source code that can be referenced by other modules?

No, it is not.

50. Which design tool defines the appearance of an interface that allows the end-user to supply runtime values to report?

Parameter Form Editor.

51. Can External queries be saved to the database?

Yes, you can.

52. What is contained in the Database objects fields of the Tables and Column names dialog box?

Table and View names.

53. The Master_Detail layout is the combination of which two layouts?

Form and Tabular.

54. By default is there a page break after each record in the form default layout?

Yes, there is.

55. Does a break report always contain a break group?

Yes.

56. Is it true that a break report data model is created using at least two queries and at least one group?

No, it is false.

57. If you minimize the number of break columns in your break groups, will you minimize the number of columns that are added to the order by clause?

Yes, you will.

58. The link causes, which query to be executed for each instance of the Parent group?

Child query.

59. How many cursors does Reports have to open for a two-query data structure?

Two.

60. Does Default columns referred to as common columns?

No, they are not.

61. Does Default columns referred to as placeholder columns?

No, they are not.



62. Does Formula column performs a user_defined computation on another columns data?

Yes.

63. Which field in Summery column's Property Sheet shows the calculation to be performed?

Function field.

64. If a Placeholder columns datatype is LONG or LONGROW can you edit the width field?

Yes, you can.

65. Can we define a  Summery  column at  Group level?

Yes we can.

66. What anchor does?

Links one or more layout objects together.

67. Does queries are created by default?

No

68. 'Oracle Reports creates one group for each query', Is it true?

Yes.

69. Does link are created by default?

No

70. Where you can restrict maximum number of rows?

 In Query Property Sheet, in maximum rows field.

71. Because of creation of links, the relationship between which two objects is created?

Group and Query

72. To produce control break reports, to produce matrix reports and to summarize data at intermediate level which object is needed?
Group Object.

73. If you change a query name after the group has been created, Can you change the name of group?

No, You cannot.

74. If we take one query e.g. Select d.id, e.salary From EMP e, dept d Where e.dept_id = d.id Order by salary And if we create Break Group with d.id , What will happen?

Here Order By clause is modified just like order by 1, salary.

75. A Link defines a parent / child relationship between a group & a query. Is it true? If yes then via which two keys?

Primary and Foreign.

76. Which term in SQL is related to the "link" in reports?

Join.

77. Can you create a link from child query to parent query?

No. Always create a link from Parent query to Child query.

78. What is Bind reference?

A bind reference replaces a single value or expression.

79. What is a Lexical reference?

A Lexical reference replaces any part of a select statement, such as column names, from clause, where clause, order by clause.
In which case Parameter is created by default? In case of Bind reference Parameter is created by default.

80. Bind reference is used to replace which clause?

Where clause, Group by, Order by, Having, Connected by, start with.

81. What is a User Parameter?
It is an object that you create to hold a value that user can change at runtime.

82. What are the properties of Parameter?

 Datatype, Width,, Input Mask, Initial Value, Validation Trigger.

83. What is the function of 'Restrict the List of Predetermined Values'?

It is used to determine whether to prevent users from entering any value not included in your list.        

84. If you uncheck the restricted values check box what will happen?

User can also enter values to the List box.

85. What is the default value of System Parameter "COPIES"?

1.

86. What is value of System Parameter "COPIES"?

Any Integer.

87. What is the value of System Parameter "DECEMIAL"?

Any single Character.

88. What is the default value of System Parameter “DESFROMAT"?

dflt.

89. What is the function of System Parameter “DESTYPE"?

Destination type for output.

90. What are the values of System Parameter "DESTYPE"?

FILE, PRINTER, MAIL, SCREEN, AND PREVIEW.

91. What is the default value of "DESNAME"?

SCREEN

92. What do you mean by System Parameter "MODE"?

Whether report executes in Bitmapped mode or in Character mode.

93. For what purpose you use System Parameter "ORIANTATION"?

It is used to specify the print direction of printer output.
94. What are the values of System Parameter "ORIANTATION"?

Landscape & Portrait

95. What is the default value of System Parameter "ORIANTATION"?

Portrait

96. What is the value of System Parameter "THOUSAND"?

Any single Character.

97. Does Oracle Reports allow DML (i.e. insert, update, delete) in layout format triggers?

No.

98. When you use Group filter in Data Model?

When you need to restrict records in a specific group.

99. Whenever a where clause in a query is not applicable which data model trigger is useful?

A Group Filter.

100. Do you add a filter to a Matrix Cross_Product group?

No, you cannot

101. A matrix report is also referred to as "CROSS_TAB" report, is it true?

Yes.

102. How many types of matrix reports are there? Tell their names?

There are 4 types. Simple matrix, nested matrix, multiquery matrix with break and matrix break.

103. If you build a matrix report with only one query, how many groups are require in addition to one created by default?

3 groups.

104. How many types of query structures are there? Tell their names?

Two. One_Query_Matrix & Multi_Query_Matrix.

105. Matrix reports are built with four or more groups. Is it true?

Yes.

106. What is the difference between a Nested Matrix and a Matrix Break?

In case of Matrix Break, One or more groups are a parent of the cross_product group.
And in case of Nested Matrix Three or more groups are surrounded by the cross_product group.

107. What is Flex mode and Confine mode?                                 

Confine mode:
          On:   child objects cannot be moved outside their enclosing parent objects.
          Off:  child objects can be moved outside their enclosing parent objects.

Flex mode:
          On: parent borders "stretch" when child objects are moved against them.
          Off: parent borders remain fixed when child objects are moved against them.

108. What is a 'break group' and how do you create one?


109. How many types of Columns are there in Reports6i?

There are three types of Columns. Formula Column, summary column, placeholder column.

110. What are the minimum numbers of groups required for a matrix report?

4. The minimum of groups required for a matrix report are 4

111. Which of the following Option is valid for Panel/Print Order Property in Report Builder?

Across Down/Down Across

112. What is the purpose of Place Holder Column in Report?

A column for which you set the datatype and value in PL/SQL that you define. 

113. What is the purpose of Summary Column in Reports?

A performs a computation on another column's data.
114. What is the purpose of Formula Columns?

A column performs a user-defined computation on another column(s) data, including placeholder columns.

115. Can lexical reference be made in PL/SQL statement?

No

116. Following of which trigger will fire first?
A. Between Pages
B. After Parameter Form
C. Before Parameter Form
D. Before Report

C

116. Can you call report from report? How if yes? If No Why?

Yes. Using Drill drown

http://techoraclevipulm.blogspot.com/2013/04/oracle-apps-reports-interview-questions.html?_sm_au_=itHDj3261JFD2tZr



1.What is SRW Package?
                                      
Ans: The Report builder Built in package know as SRW Package (Sql Report Writer) This package extends reports, Control report execution, output message at runtime, Initialize layout fields, Perform  DDL statements  used to create or Drop  temporary table,  Call User Exit, to format width of the columns, to page break the column, to set the colors
Ex: SRW.DO_SQL, It’s like DDL command, we can create table, views , etc.,
          SRW.SET_FIELD_NUM
          SRW. SET_FIELD_CHAR
          SRW. SET FIELD _DATE

2.What are Lexical Parameters and bind parameters?  
       
Lexical Parameter is a Simple text string   that to replace any part of a SELECT statement. Column names, the from clause, where clause or the order by clause. To create a lexical reference in a query we prefix the parameter name with an ampersand (ex. &.dname,)

3. What is User Parameters?                              
A parameter, which is created by user. For to restrict values with where clause in select statement.
Data type, width, input mask, initial value, validation trigger, list of values
We can use Lovs in use in user parameter with static and Dynamic Select Statement.

4. What is System Parameters: These are built-in parameters by corporation. 
BACKGROUND: Is whether the report should run in the foreground or the background.
COPIES         Is the number of report copies that should be made when the report is printed.
CURRENCY     Is the symbol for the currency indicator (e.g., “$”).
DECIMAL       Is the symbol for the decimal indicator (e.g., “.”).
DESFORMAT Is the definition of the output device’s format (e.g., landscape mode for a printer).  This 
                         parameter is used when running a report in a character-mode environment, and when
                         sending  a bitmap report to a file (e.g. to create PDF or HTML output).
DESNAME      Is the name of the output device (e.g., the file name, printer’s name, mail userid).
DESTYPE       Is the type of device to which to send the report output (screen, file, mail, printer, or 
                        screen using PostScript format).
MODE              Is whether the report should run in character mode or bitmap.
ORIENTATION Is the print direction for the report (landscape, portrait, default).
PRINTJOB      Is whether the Print Job dialog box should appear before the report is run.
THOUSANDS Is the symbol for the thousand’s indicator (e.g., “,”).

5. How many Types of Reports available in Reports                          
Tabular   
form-like
form – letter            
Group left
Group above
matrix           
Matrix with group      
Mailing label


Matrix Report: Simple, Group above, Nested               
Simple Matrix Report required 4 groups
          1.Cross Product Group
          2. Row and Column Group
          3. Cell Group
          4. Cell column is the source of a cross product summary that becomes the cell content.
 Frames: 1.Repeating frame for rows (down direction)
             2.Repeating frame for columns (Across)
             3.Matrix object the intersection of the two repeating frames

6.What Types of Triggers are Available in Reports.               
  • Report level Triggers
  • Data Model Triggers
  • Layout Model Triggers
Report Level Triggers
                                                        
Before parameter form:
 If u want take parameters passed to the report and manipulate them so that they appear differently in the parameter form., this is where modification can be done for ex: when u want pass a deptno but show the dname selected , use a before parameter form trigger.


After parameter form & Before Report:
 These two triggers are fired one after the other. No event occurs in between them. However the way the way that the reports product behaves when the triggers fail is quite different. If the After Parameter trigger fails the report will be put back into the parameter form. It’s useful to place code here to check whether values in your parameter form are valid. Even though the Before Report trigger is executed before the query runs, if this trigger fails it won’t fail until reports tries to display the first page of the report. This means that even if something goes wrong in the before report trigger (meaning that you may not want to run the query at all) It will run anyway

Between pages:
 This Trigger fires before all pages except first page one. It will not fire   after the last page of a report. If a report only has one page it will not fire at all. You can use this trigger to send specific control to the change the paper orientation or to do double sided printing

After report: 
This trigger fires the report has printed or in the case of a screen report, after the report is closed following viewing. This trigger can be used to update a global variable if u r returning the number of pages in a report. It is also used to delete temporary table used to print the report

Data Model Triggers                                                                      
Formula Column, 
Group Filter, 
Parameter values

Layout Model Triggers                                                                  

7. What is Format triggers.

 Format triggers enable you to modify the display of objects dynamically at run time or to suppress display altogether
For Headings, for repeating frames, for field, for boilerplate object
To format  a column based on certain criteria for example
i)             To  format the max(Sal) for particular department.
ii)            To format the Sal column with a Dollar($) prefix.
iii)           To format Date formats….etc

8. What is Data Model?                                                                 
Data Model is logically group of the Report Objects through query and Data model tools . Once query is compiled report automatically generates group. The queries build the groups ant then Groups are used to populate the report. The only  function of queries in report is to create the groups.  The Report Editor’s Data Model view enables you to define and modify the data model objects for a report.  In this view, objects and their property settings are represented symbolically to highlight their types and relationships.  To create the query objects for your data model, you can use the Report Wizard, Data Wizard, or the Query tools in the tool palette.


9. What is Layout model?                                                             
Layout Model is to Physically arrange Data model group objects on the Report. The Report Editor’s Layout Model view enables you to define and modify the layout model objects for a report.  In this view, objects and their property settings are represented symbolically to highlight their types and relationships.

10 What is Livepreviewer?     
                                                                  
Ans: The Live Previewer is a work area in which you can preview your report and manipulate the actual, or live data at the same time.  In the Live Previewer you can customize reports interactively, meaning that you can see the results immediately as you make each change.
To activate buttons in the Live Previewer, you must display the report output in the Runtime Previewer.  In order to edit your report, such as changing column size ,move columns, align columns insert page numbers, edit text, change colors, change fonts set format masks, insert field  the Live Previewer must be in  Flex Mode.
Access
Title
Viewing region
Rulers
Grid
Toolbar
Style bar
Tool palette
Status bar

11. What is Parameter Form                                                                   
Ans: Parameters are variables for report that users can change at runtime immediately prior to the execution of the report. You can use system parameters to specify aspects of report execution, such as the output format, printer name , mailed or number of copies. We can also create own parameters through sql or Pl/sql at runtime.
The Parameter Form view is the work area in which you define the format of the report’s Runtime Parameter Form.  To do this, you define and modify parameter form objects (fields and boilerplate).
When you run a report, Report Builder uses the Parameter Form view as a template for the Runtime Parameter Form.  Fields and boilerplate appear in the Runtime Parameter Form exactly as they appear in the Parameter Form view.   If you do not define a Runtime Parameter Form in the Parameter Form view, Report Builder displays a default Parameter Form for you at runtime.

12. What is Query?                                                                                    
The first thing in data model is the query. Through query we access database objects  with sql query. Compiled query creates groups. We can create query through query builder, sql query and import query from o/s file or database.


13. What is Group?                                                                                    
Ans: Groups are created to organize the columns in your report.  When you create a query, Report Builder automatically creates a group that contains the columns selected by the query.  You create additional groups to produce break levels in the report, either manually or by using the Report Wizard to create a group above or group left report.

14 What is Repeating Frame?                                                                  
Ans: Repeating frames surround all of the fields that are created for a group’s columns.
Repeating frames  correspond to groups in the data model. Each repeating frame must to be associated with a group of data model  The repeating frame prints (is fired) once for each record of the group.

15. What is Reference Cursor?                                                               
A ref cursor query uses PL/SQL to fetch data.  Each ref cursor query is associated with a PL/SQL function that returns a strongly typed ref cursor.  The function must ensure that the ref cursor is opened and associated with a SELECT statement that has a SELECT list that matches the type of the ref cursor.
You base a query on a ref cursor when you want to:
n        more easily administer SQL
n        avoid the use of lexical parameters in your reports
n        share datasources with other applications, such as Form Builder
n        increase control and security
n        encapsulate logic within a subprogram
Furthermore, if you use a stored program unit to implement ref cursors, you receive the added benefits that go along with storing your program units in the Oracle database.


16. What is Template?                                                                              
Ans: Templates define common characteristics and objects that you want to apply to multiple reports.  For example, you can define a template that includes the company logo and sets fonts and colors for selected areas of a report. And properties of the objects also
Creation of Template: In Report editor , open a existing Template or Create a new Template and save it concerned directory. Then  Edit CAGPREFS.ORA File , and Specify which type of Template are u going to develop.
Ex. Tabular, form, matrix  Then give your developed template  *.tdf  file name.
Develop Report with  Newly developed  Template.

17 what is Flex mode and Confine mode?                                                         

Confine mode

On:  child objects cannot be moved outside their enclosing parent objects.
          Off:  child objects can be moved outside their enclosing parent objects.
Flex mode:
          On:  parent borders “stretch” when child objects are moved against them.


          Off:  parent borders remain fixed when child objects are moved against them.



18. What is Page Break?                                                                          
Ans: To limit the records per page.

19 What is Page Protector?
Ans: The Page Protect property indicates whether to try to keep the entire object and its contents on the same logical page.  Setting Page Protect to Yes means that if the contents of the object cannot fit on the current logical page, the object and all of its contents will be moved to the next logical page. Ex: if you set yes, the object information print  another page.


Print Condition 
                                                                                           
The print condition type First, All, All but first, Last, All but last refer to the frequency with which you want to appear based upon the setting of the print condition object. A print condition object of Enclosing Object is whichever object encloses the current object (could be the parent or a frame within the parent), while Anchoring Object is the parent object (unless you have explicitly anchored the object in which case it is the object to which it is anchored). The key here is that this is about the pages on which the Print Condition Object appears, not the current object. Oracle views First as the first page on which any part of the Print Condition Object is printed, likewise Last is the last page on which any part of the Print Condition Object is printed. For objects inside a repeating frame, this condition is re-evaluated for each instance of the frame.


20 What is Print Direction?                                                                                  
Ans: The Print Direction property is the direction in which successive instances of the repeating frame appear.
21 What is Vertical and Horizental Elacity
Ans: The Horizontal Elasticity property is how the horizontal size of the object will change at runtime to accommodate the objects or data within it:


22.What is Place holder Columns?                                                                     
Ans: A placeholder is a column is an empty container at design time. The placeholder can hold a value at run time has been calculated and placed in to It by pl/sql code from anther object. You can set the value of a placeholder column is  in  a Before Report trigger , A report level formula column(if the place holder column is at report level) A formula column in  the place holder group or a group below it
Uses of place holder columns enables u to populate multiple columns from one piece of code. U can calculate several values in one block of pl/sql code in a formula column and assign each value into a different placeholder column. U therefore create and maintain only program unit instead of many.
Store a Temporary value for future reference. EX.  Store  the current max salary as records are retrieved.


23 What is Formula Column?                                                                   
Ans: A formula column performs a user-defined computation on another column(s) data, including placeholder columns.

24 What is Summary columns?                                                               
Ans: A summary column performs a computation on another column’s data.  Using the Report Wizard or Data Wizard, you can create the following summaries:  sum, average, count, minimum, maximum, % total.  You can also create a summary column manually in the Data Model view, and use the Property Palette to create the following additional summaries:  first, last, standard deviation, variance.


25 What is Boilerplate?                                                                 
Ans: Boilerplate is any text or graphics that appear in a report every time it is run.  Report Builder will create one boilerplate object for each label selected in the Report Wizard (it is named B_
Column name).  Also, one boilerplate object is sometimes created for each report summary. A boilerplate object is owned by the object surrounding it, unless otherwise noted.

26 What is Data Link

When  we join multiple quires  in a report the join condition is stored in the data link section
Data links relate the results of multiple queries.  A data link (or parent-child relationship) causes the child query to be executed once for each instance of its parent group.  When you create a data link in the Data Model view of your report, Report Builder constructs a clause (as specified in the link’s Property Palette) that will be added to the child query’s SELECT statement at runtime.  You can view the SELECT statements for the individual parent and child queries in the Builder, but can not view the SELECT statement that includes the clause created by the data link you define.

27 What is  filter and Group Filter


28.What is Query Builder                                                                         
 Ans: it’s a gui tool to build a query in Report Wizard, Data Wizard or Data model.


29 What is  Break Column?                                                                                  
Ans: We can break a column through data model , it  Display  once for  a group


30.How do u call Report From form?                                                     
Ans:    RUN_PRODUCT  and            RUN_REPORT_OBJECT


40. HOW CAN U CREATE TWO FORMATS
USING DISTRIBUTION WE CAN CREATE DIFFERENT FORMATS


45 HOW TO DISPLY ONE RECORD PER PAGE ( WHICH PROPERTY WE SHOULD SET)
Set Repeating Frame Properties : Maximum records per page=1 And it will override group filter property.
In Data model Layout  , Group Property  Through Filter Type & No of records to display
Property, Values are First, last, pl/sql


47. What  is Header ,Body, Trailer, and Footer in Reports                           
Header: The header consist of on e or more pages that are printed before report proper. The type of
          Information you might want to print title of the page ,company logo and address or chart the
Summarizes the report.
Trailer: The trailer consists of one or more pages that print after the report itself, usually used for nothing more than an end of report blank page, but also used for a report summary or chart.
Body: The body is where all the main report objects are placed
Margin: the report layout only governs the part of the pages designated for the main data portion of the report. The margins are can be used to specify page headers and page footers.


49. what are Executable file definitions in Reports
Report Builder (RWBLD60.EXE)
n        Reports Runtime (RWRUN60.EXE) 
n        Reports Convert (RWCON60.EXE)
n        Reports Background Engine (RWRBE60.EXE)
n        Reports Server (RWMTS60.EXE)
n        Reports Web Cartridge (RWOWS60.DLL)
n        Reports CGI (RWCGI60.EXE)
n        Reports Queue Manager (RWRQM60.EXE)
n        Reports Launcher (RWSXC60.EXE)
n        Reports ActiveX Control (RWSXA60.OCX)


What are the Non_query fields?                                                                         
Aggregated Information, Calculated information, A string Function

Can I highlight and change all the format masks and print conditions of a bunch of fields all at once?
You can. If you highlight a bunch of objects and then right click and select “properties..”, Oracle gives you a stacked set of the individual properties forms for each of the selected objects. While this may be useful for some things, it requires changing values individually for each object. However, instead you can select the group of fields and then select “Common properties” from the “Tools” menu which will allow you to set the format mask , print conditions etc. for the whole set of objects at once.


How do I change the printed value of a field at runtime?
Triggers are intended to simply provide a true or false return value to determine whether an object should be printed. It is generally not allowed to change any values held in the cursor, make changes to the database, or change the value of it’s objects value.
That being said, there is a highly unpublicized method of doing just that using the SRW.Set_Field_Char procedure.
The syntax is SRW.Set_Field_char (0,) and the output of the object that the current trigger is attached to will be replaced by .
There are also SRW.set_fileld_num and SRW.set_field_date for numeric or date fields. 
While these options do work, they should only be used if a suitable NVL or DECODE statement in the original query is not possible as they are much, much slower to run. Also, note that this change of value only applies to the formatted output. It does not change the value held in the cursor and so can not be used for evaluating summary totals


Report Bursting                                                                                                      
The capability of producing multiple copies of a given report or portion of it in different output formats is referred to as report bursting.


Additional Layout:                                                                                                  
Additional layout created for  to different format using same query and groups without  modifying default layout created by report wizard., we can use both layouts according to user requirement.


System Variables as Source Field  In  Layout Editor                                      
Ans: Current date, Page Number, Panel number, Physical Page Number, Total Pages,
Total Panels, Total Physical Pages.

Link File : Is a special type of boilerplate, that doesn’t have to remain constant for each report run
The type of file contents,  can be Text, Image, CGM, Oracle drawing format, or image URL
Source filename :the name  of the file the u want link to the report Through import Image from

http://www.askhareesh.com/2014/03/oracle-reports-interview-questions.html


1. What are the different file extensions that are created by oracle reports?
Rep file and Rdf file.

2. From which designation is it preferred to send the output to the printed?
Previewer.

3. Is it possible to disable the parameter from while running the report?
Yes

4. What is lexical reference? How can it be created?
Lexical reference is place_holder for text that can be embedded in a sql statements. A lexical reference can be created using & before the column or parameter name.

5. What is bind reference and how can it create?
Bind reference are used to replace the single value in sql,pl/sql statements a bind reference can be created using a (:) before a column or a parameter name.

6. What use of command line parameter cmd file?
It is a command line argument that allows you to specify a file that contain a set of arguments for r20run.

7. Where is a procedure return in an external pl/sql library executed at the client or at the server?
At the client.

8. Where is the external query executed at the client or the server?
At the server.

9. What are the default parameter that appear at run time in the parameter screen?
Destype and Desname.

10. Which parameter can be used to set read level consistency across multiple queries?
Read only.

11. What is term?
The term is terminal definition file that describes the terminal form which you are using r20run.

12. What is use of term?
The term file which key is correspond to which oracle report functions.

13. Is it possible to insert comments into sql statements return in the data model editor?
Yes.

14. If the maximum record retrieved property of the query is set to 10 then a summary value will be calculated?
Only for 10 records.

15. What are the sql clauses supported in the link property sheet?
Where start with having.

16. To execute row from being displayed that still use column in the row which property can be used?
Format trigger.

17. Is it possible to set a filter condition in a cross product group in matrix reports?
No.

18. If a break order is set on a column would it effect columns which are under the column?
No.

19. With which function of summary item is the compute at options required?
percentage of total functions.

20. What is the purpose of the product order option in the column property sheet?
To specify the order of individual group evaluation in a cross products.

21. Can a formula column be obtained through a select statement?
Yes.

22. Can a formula column referred to columns in higher group?
Yes.

23. How can a break order be created on a column in an existing group?
By dragging the column outside the group.

24. What are the types of calculated columns available?
Summary, Formula, Placeholder column.

25. What is the use of place holder column?
A placeholder column is used to hold a calculated values at a specified place rather than allowing is to appear in the actual row where it has to appeared.

26. What is the use of hidden column?
A hidden column is used to when a column has to embed into boilerplate text.

27. What is the use of break group?
A break group is used to display one record for one group ones. While multiple related records in other group can be displayed.

28. If two groups are not linked in the data model editor, what is the hierarchy between them?
Two group that is above are the left most rank higher than the group that is to right or below it.

29. The join defined by the default data link is an outer join yes or no?
Yes.

30. How can a text file be attached to a report while creating in the report writer?
By using the link file property in the layout boiler plate property sheet.

31. Can a repeating frame be created without a data group as a base?
No.

32. Can a field be used in a report without it appearing in any data group?
Yes.

33. For a field in a repeating frame, can the source come from the column which does not exist in the data group which forms the base for the frame?
Yes.

34. Is it possible to centre an object horizontally in a repeating frame that has a variable horizontal size?
Yes.

35. If yes, how?
By the use anchors.

36. What are the two repeating frame always associated with matrix object?
One down repeating frame below one across repeating frame.

37. Is it possible to split the print previewer into more than one region?
Yes.

38. Does a grouping done for objects in the layout editor affect the grouping done in 
the data model editor?
No.

39. How can a square be drawn in the layout editor of the report writer?
By using the rectangle tool while pressing the (Constraint) key.

40. To display the page no. for each page on a report what would be the source & logical page no. or & of physical page no.?
& physical page no.

41. What does the term panel refer to with regard to pages?
A panel is the no. of physical pages needed to print one logical page.

42. What is an anchoring object & what is its use?
An anchoring object is a print condition object which used to explicitly or implicitly anchor other objects to itself. 

43. What is a physical page? & what is a logical page?
A physical page is a size of a page. That is output by the printer. The logical page is the size of one page of the actual report as seen in the Previewer.

44. What is the frame & repeating frame?
A frame is a holder for a group of fields. A repeating frame is used to display a set of records when the no. of records that are to displayed is not known before.

http://learnoracleeasy.blogspot.com/2012/11/oracle-forms-and-reports-interview.html?_sm_au_=itHDj3261JFD2tZr


What is trigger associated with the timer? 
When-timer-expired.
What are the trigger associated with image items? 
When-image-activated fires when the operators double clicks on an image itemwhen-image-pressed fires when an operator clicks or double clicks on an image item
What are the different windows events activated at runtimes? 
When_window_activated
When_window_closed
When_window_deactivated
When_window_resized
Within this triggers, you can examine the built in system variable system. event_window to determine the name of the window for which the trigger fired.
When do you use data parameter type? 
When the value of a data parameter being passed to a called product is always the name of the record group defined in the current form. Data parameters are used to pass data to products invoked with the run_product built-in subprogram.
What is difference between open_form and call_form? 
when one form invokes another form by executing open_form the first form remains displayed, and operators can navigate between the forms as desired. when one form invokes another form by executing call_form, the called form is modal with respect to the calling form. That is, any windows that belong to the calling form are disabled, and operators cannot navigate to them until they first exit the called form.
What is new_form built-in? 
When one form invokes another form by executing new_form oracle form exits the first form and releases its memory before loading the new form calling new form completely replace the first with the second. If there are changes pending in the first form, the operator will be prompted to save them before the new form is loaded.
What is the "LOV of Validation" Property of an item? What is the use of it? 
When LOV for Validation is set to True, Oracle Forms compares the current value of the text item to the values in the first column displayed in the LOV. Whenever the validation event occurs. If the value in the text item matches one of the values in the first column of the LOV, validation succeeds, the LOV is not displayed, and processing continues normally. If the value in the text item does not match one of the values in the first column of the LOV, Oracle Forms displays the LOV and uses the text item value as the search criteria to automatically reduce the list.
What is the diff. when Flex mode is mode on and when it is off? 
When flex mode is on, reports automatically resizes the parent when the child is resized.
What is the diff. when confine mode is on and when it is off? 
When confine mode is on, an object cannot be moved outside its parent in the layout.
What are visual attributes? 
Visual attributes are the font, color, pattern proprieties that you set for form and menu objects that appear in your application interface.
Which of the two views should objects according to possession? 
view by structure.
What are the two types of views available in the object navigatorView by structure and view by type .
What are the vbx controls? 
Vbx control provide a simple method of building and enhancing user interfaces. The controls can use to obtain user inputs and display program outputs.vbx control where originally develop as extensions for the ms visual basic environments and include such items as sliders, rides and knobs.
What is the use of transactional triggers? 
Using transactional triggers we can control or modify the default functionality of the oracle forms.
How do you create a new session while open a new form? 
Using open_form built-in setting the session option Ex. Open_form('Stocks ',active, session). when invoke the multiple forms with open form and call_form in the same application, state whether the following are true/False
What are the ways to monitor the performance of the report? 
Use reports profile executable statement. Use SQL trace facility.
If two groups are not linked in the data model editor, What is the hierarchy between them? 
Two group that is above are the left most rank higher than the group that is to right or below it.
An open form can not be execute the call_form procedure if you chain of called forms has been initiated by another open form?
True
Explain about horizontal, Vertical tool bar canvas views? 
Tool bar canvas views are used to create tool bars for individual windows. Horizontal tool bars are display at the top of a window, just under its menu bar. Vertical Tool bars are displayed along the left side of a window
What is the purpose of the product order option in the column property sheet? 
To specify the order of individual group evaluation in a cross products.
What is the use of image_zoom built-in? 
To manipulate images in image items.
How do you reference a parameter indirectly? 
To indirectly reference a parameter use the NAME IN, COPY 'built-ins to indirectly set and reference the parameters value' Example name_in ('capital parameter my param'), Copy ('SURESH','Parameter my_param')
What is a timer? 
Timer is an "internal time clock" that you can programmatically create to perform an action each time the times.
What are the two phases of block coordination? 
There are two phases of block coordination: the clear phase and the population phase. During, the clear phase, Oracle Forms navigates internally to the detail block and flushes the obsolete detail records. During the population phase, Oracle Forms issues a SELECT statement to repopulate the detail block with detail records associated with the new master record. These operations are accomplished through the execution of triggers.
What are Most Common types of Complex master-detail relationships? 
There are three most common types of complex master-detail relationships:
master with dependent details
master with independent details
detail with two masters
What is a text list? 
The text list style list item appears as a rectangular box which displays the fixed number of values. When the text list contains values that can not be displayed, a vertical scroll bar appears, allowing the operator to view and select undisplayed values.
What is term? 
The term is terminal definition file that describes the terminal form which you are using r20run.
What is use of term? 
The term file which key is correspond to which oracle report functions.
What is pop list? 
The pop list style list item appears initially as a single field (similar to a text item field). When the operator selects the list icon, a list of available choices appears.
What is the maximum no of chars the parameter can store? 
The maximum no of chars the parameter can store is only valid for char parameters, which can be upto 64K. No parameters default to 23Bytes and Date parameter default to 7Bytes.
What are the default extensions of the files created by library module? 
The default file extensions indicate the library module type and storage format .pll - pl/sql library module binary
What are the Coordination Properties in a Master-Detail relationship? 
The coordination properties are
Deferred
Auto-Query
These Properties determine when the population phase of block
coordination should occur.
How do you display console on a window ? 
The console includes the status line and message line, and is displayed at the bottom of the window to which it is assigned.To specify that the console should be displayed, set the console window form property to the name of any window in the form. To include the console, set console window to Null.
What are the different Parameter types? 
Text ParametersData Parameters
State any three mouse events system variables? 
System.mouse_button_pressedSystem.mouse_button_shift
What are the types of calculated columns available? 
Summary, Formula, Placeholder column.
Explain about stacked canvas views? 
Stacked canvas view is displayed in a window on top of, or "stacked" on the content canvas view assigned to that same window. Stacked canvas views obscure some part of the underlying content canvas view, and or often shown and hidden programmatically.
What is the difference between SHOW_EDITOR and EDIT_TEXTITEM? 
Show editor is the generic built-in which accepts any editor name and takes some input string and returns modified output string. Whereas the edit_textitem built-in needs the input focus to be in the text item before the built-in is executed.
What are the built-ins that are used to Attach an LOV programmatically to an item? 
set_item_property
get_item_property
(by setting the LOV_NAME property)
What are the different file extensions that are created by oracle reports? 
Rep file and Rdf file.
What is strip sources generate options? 
Removes the source code from the library file and generates a library files that contains only pcode. The resulting file can be used for final deployment, but can not be subsequently edited in the designer.ex. f45gen module=old_lib.pll userid=scott/tiger strip_source YES output_file
What is the Maximum allowed length of Record group Column?
Record group column names cannot exceed 30 characters.
Which parameter can be used to set read level consistency across multiple queries? 
Read only
What are the different types of Record Groups? 
Query Record Groups
NonQuery Record Groups
State Record Groups
From which designation is it preferred to send the output to the printed? 
Previewer
What are difference between post database commit and post-form commit? 
Post-form commit fires once during the post and commit transactions process, after the database commit occurs. The post-form-commit trigger fires after inserts, updates and deletes have been posted to the database but before the transactions have been finalized in the issuing the command. The post-database-commit trigger fires after oracle forms issues the commit to finalized transactions.
What are the different display styles of list items? 
Pop_listText_listCombo box
Which of the above methods is the faster method? 
performing the calculation in the query is faster.
With which function of summary item is the compute at options required? 
percentage of total functions.
What are parameters? 
Parameters provide a simple mechanism for defining and setting the valuesof inputs that are required by a form at startup. Form parameters are variables of type char,number,date that you define at design time.
What are the three types of user exits available ? 
Oracle Precompiler exits, Oracle call interface, NonOracle user exits.
How many windows in a form can have console? 
Only one window in a form can display the console, and you cannot change the console assignment at runtime.
What are the two repeating frame always associated with matrix object? 
One down repeating frame below one across repeating frame.
What are the master-detail triggers?
On-Check_delete_masterOn_clear_detailsOn_populate_details
Can you pass data parameters to forms? 
No
Is it possible to link two groups inside a cross products after the cross products group has been created? 
no
What are the different modals of windows? 
Modalless windows
Modal windows
What are modal windows? 
Modal windows are usually used as dialogs, and have restricted functionality compared to modelless windows. On some platforms for example operators cannot resize, scroll or iconify a modal window.
What are the different default triggers created when Master Deletes Property is set to Non-isolated? 
Master Deletes Property Resulting Triggers
----------------------------------------------------
Non-Isolated(the default) On-Check-Delete-Master
On-Clear-Details
On-Populate-Details
What are the different default triggers created when Master Deletes Property is set to isolated? 
Master Deletes Property Resulting Triggers
---------------------------------------------------
Isolated On-Clear-Details
On-Populate-Details
What are the different default triggers created when Master Deletes Property is set to Cascade? 
Master Deletes Property Resulting Triggers
---------------------------------------------------
Cascading On-Clear-Details
On-Populate-Details
Pre-delete
What are the difference between lov & list item? 
Lov is a property where as list item is an item. A list item can have only one column, lov can have one or more columns.
What is the advantage of the library?
Libraries provide a convenient means of storing client-side program units and sharing them among multiple applications. Once you create a library, you can attach it to any other form, menu, or library modules. When you can call library program units from triggers menu items commands and user named routine, you write in the modules to which you have attach the library. When a library attaches another library, program units in the first library can reference program units in the attached library. Library support dynamic loading-that is library program units are loaded into an application only when needed. This can significantly reduce the run-time memory requirements of applications.
What is lexical reference? How can it be created? 
Lexical reference is place_holder for text that can be embedded in a sql statements. A lexical reference can be created using & before the column or parameter name.
What is system.coordination_operation? 
It represents the coordination causing event that occur on the master block in master-detail relation.
What is synchronize? 
It is a terminal screen with the internal state of the form. It updates the screen display to reflect the information that oracle forms has in its internal representation of the screen.
What use of command line parameter cmd file? 
It is a command line argument that allows you to specify a file that contain a set of arguments for r20run.
What is a Text_io Package? 
It allows you to read and write information to a file in the file system.
What is forms_DDL? 
Issues dynamic Sql statements at run time, including server side pl/SQl and DDL
What are the different styles of activation of ole Objects? 
In place activationExternal activation
How do you reference a Parameter? 
In Pl/Sql, You can reference and set the values of form parameters using bind variables syntax. Ex. PARAMETER name = '' or :block.item = PARAMETER Parameter name
What is the difference between object embedding & linking in Oracle forms? 
In Oracle forms, Embedded objects become part of the form module, and linked objects are references from a form module to a linked source file.
Name of the functions used to get/set canvas properties? 
Get_view_property, Set_view_property
What are the built-ins that are used for setting the LOV properties at runtime? 
get_lov_property
set_lov_property
What are the built-ins used for processing rows? 
Get_group_row_count(function)
Get_group_selection_count(function)
Get_group_selection(function)
Reset_group_selection(procedure)
Set_group_selection(procedure)
Unset_group_selection(procedure)
What are built-ins used for Processing rows? 
GET_GROUP_ROW_COUNT(function)
GET_GROUP_SELECTION_COUNT(function)
GET_GROUP_SELECTION(function)
RESET_GROUP_SELECTION(procedure)
SET_GROUP_SELECTION(procedure)
UNSET_GROUP_SELECTION(procedure)
What are the built-in used for getting cell values? 
Get_group_char_cell(function)
Get_groupcell(function)
Get_group_number_cell(function)
What are the built-ins used for Getting cell values? 
GET_GROUP_CHAR_CELL (function)
GET_GROUPCELL(function)
GET_GROUP_NUMBET_CELL(function)
Atleast how many set of data must a data model have before a data model can be base on it? 
Four
To execute row from being displayed that still use column in the row which property can be used? 
Format trigger.
What are different types of modules available in oracle form? 
Form module - a collection of objects and code routines Menu modules - a collection of menus and menu item commands that together make up an application menu library module - a collection of user named procedures, functions and packages that can be called from other modules in the application
What is the remove on exit property? 
For a modelless window, it determines whether oracle forms hides the window automatically when the operators navigates to an item in the another window.
What is WHEN-Database-record trigger? 
Fires when oracle forms first marks a record as an insert or an update. The trigger fires as soon as oracle forms determines through validation that the record should be processed by the next post or commit as an insert or update. c generally occurs only when the operators modifies the first item in the record, and after the operator attempts to navigate out of the item.
What is a difference between pre-select and pre-query? 
Fires during the execute query and count query processing after oracle forms constructs the select statement to be issued, but before the statement is actually issued. The pre-query trigger fires just before oracle forms issues the select statement to the database after the operator as define the example records by entering the query criteria in enter query mode.Pre-query trigger fires before pre-select trigger.
What are built-ins associated with timers? 
find_timercreate_timerdelete_timer
What are the built-ins used for finding object ID functions? 
Find_group(function)
Find_column(function)
What are the built-ins used for finding Object ID function? 
FIND_GROUP(function)
FIND_COLUMN(function)
Any attempt to navigate programmatically to disabled form in a call_form stack is allowed? 
False
Use the Add_group_row procedure to add a row to a static record group 1. true or false? 
False
Give the sequence of execution of the various report triggers? 
Before form , After form , Before report, Between page, After report.
What are the common Import/ Export problems? (for DBA )
ORA-00001: Unique constraint (...) violated - You are importing duplicate rows. Use IGNORE=NO to skip tables that already exist (imp will give an error if the object is re-created).
ORA-01555: Snapshot too old - Ask your users to STOP working while you are exporting or use parameter CONSISTENT=NO
ORA-01562: Failed to extend rollback segment - Create bigger rollback segments or set parameter COMMIT=Y while importing
IMP-00015: Statement failed ... object already exists... - Use the IGNORE=Y import parameter to ignore these errors, but be careful as you might end up with duplicate rows.
Why is it preferable to create a fewer no. of queries in the data model? 
Because for each query, report has to open a separate cursor and has to rebind, execute and fetch data
Where is the external query executed at the client or the server?
At the server.
Where is a procedure return in an external pl/sql library executed at the client or at the server? 
At the client.
What is coordination Event? 
Any event that makes a different record in the master block the current record is a coordination causing event.
What is the difference between OLE Server & Ole Container? 
An Ole server application creates ole Objects that are embedded or linked in ole Containers ex. Ole servers are ms_word & ms_excel. OLE containers provide a place to store, display and manipulate objects that are created by ole server applications. Ex. oracle forms is an example of an ole Container.
What is an object group? 
An object group is a container for a group of objects; you define an object group when you want to package related objects, so that you copy or reference them in other modules.
What is an LOV? 
An LOV is a scrollable popup window that provides the operator with either a single or multi column selection list.
At what point of report execution is the before Report trigger fired? 
After the query is executed but before the report is executed and the records are displayed.
What are the built -ins used for Modifying a groups structure? 
ADD-GROUP_COLUMN (function)
ADD_GROUP_ROW (procedure)
DELETE_GROUP_ROW(procedure)
What is an user exit used for? 
A way in which to pass control (and possibly arguments ) form Oracle report to another Oracle products of 3 GL and then return control ( and ) back to Oracle reports.
What is the User-Named Editor? 
A user named editor has the same text editing functionality as the default editor, but, because it is a named object, you can specify editor attributes such as windows display size, position, and title.
What is a Static Record Group? 
A static record group is not associated with a query, rather, you define its structure and row values at design time, and they remain fixed at runtime.
What is a record group? 
A record group is an internal Oracle Forms that structure that has a column/row framework similar to a database table. However, unlike database tables, record groups are separate objects that belong to the form module which they are defined.
What is a property clause? 
A property clause is a named object that contains a list of properties and their settings. Once you create a property clause you can base other object on it. An object based on a property can inherit the setting of any property in the clause that makes sense for that object.
What is a physical page ? & What is a logical page ? 
A physical page is a size of a page. That is output by the printer. The logical page is the size of one page of the actual report as seen in the Previewer.
How can a group in a cross products be visually distinguished from a group that does not form a cross product? 
A group that forms part of a cross product will have a thicker border.
What is the frame & repeating frame? 
A frame is a holder for a group of fields. A repeating frame is used to display a set of records when the no. of records that are to displayed is not known before.
What is a combo box? 
A combo box style list item combines the features found in list and text item. Unlike the pop list or the text list style list items, the combo box style list item will both display fixed values and accept one operator entered value.
What are three panes that appear in the run time pl/sql interpreter?
1. Source pane.
2. interpreter pane.
3. Navigator pane.
What are the two panes that Appear in the design time pl/sql interpreter? 
1. Source pane.
2. Interpreter pane
What are the two ways by which data can be generated for a parameters list of values? 
1. Using static values.
2. Writing select statement.
What are the various methods of performing a calculation in a report ? 
1. Perform the calculation in the SQL statements itself.
2. Use a calculated / summary column in the data model.
What are the default extensions of the files created by menu module? 
.mmb,
.mmx
What are the default extensions of the files created by forms modules? 
.fmb - form module binary
.fmx - form module executable
To display the page no. for each page on a report what would be the source & logical page no. or & of physical page no.? 
& physical page no.

What is the difference between ON-VALIDATE-FIELD trigger and a POST-CHANGE trigger ? 
When you changes the Existing value to null, the On-validate field trigger will fire post change trigger will not fire. At the time of execute-query post-change trigger will fire, on-validate field trigger will not fire.
When is PRE-QUERY trigger executed ? 
When Execute-query or count-query Package procedures are invoked.
How do you trap the error in forms 3.0 ?
using On-Message or On-Error triggers.
How many pages you can in a single form ? 
Unlimited
While specifying master/detail relationship between two blocks specifying the join condition is a must ?
True or False. ? 
True
EXIT_FORM is a restricted package procedure ?
a. True b. False 
True
What is the usage of an ON-INSERT,ON-DELETE and ON-UPDATE TRIGGERS ? 
These triggers are executes when inserting, deleting and updating operations are performed and can be used to change the default function of insert, delete or update respectively. For Eg, instead of inserting a row in a table an existing row can be updated in the same table.
What are the types of Pop-up window ? 
the pop-up field editor
pop-up list of values
pop-up pages.
Alert :
What is an SQL *FORMS ? 
SQL *forms is 4GL tool for developing and executing; Oracle based interactive application.
How do you control the constraints in forms ? 
Select the use constraint property is ON Block definition screen.
BLOCK
What is the difference between restricted and unrestricted package procedure ? 
Restricted package procedure that affects the basic functions of SQL * Forms. It cannot used in all triggers except key triggers. Unrestricted package procedure that does not interfere with the basic functions of SQL * Forms it can be used in any triggers.
A query fetched 10 records How many times does a PRE-QUERY Trigger and POST-QUERY Trigger will get executed ? 
PRE-QUERY fires once.
POST-QUERY fires 10 times.
Give the sequence in which triggers fired during insert operations, when the following 3 triggers are defined at the same block level ? 
a. ON-INSERT b. POST-INSERT c. PRE-INSERT
State the order in which these triggers are executed ? 
POST-FIELD,ON-VALIDATE-FIELD,POST-CHANGE and KEY-NEXTFLD. KEY-NEXTFLD,POST-CHANGE, ON-VALIDATE-FIELD, POST-FIELD. g.
What the PAUSE package procedure does ? 
Pause suspends processing until the operator presses a function key
What do you mean by a page ? 
Pages are collection of display information, such as constant text and graphics
What are the type of User Exits ? 
ORACLE Precompliers user exits
OCI (ORACLE Call Interface)
Non-ORACEL user exits.
Page :
What is the difference between an ON-VALIDATE-FIELD trigger and a trigger ? 
On-validate-field trigger fires, when the field Validation status New or changed. Post-field-trigger whenever the control leaving form the field, it will fire.
Can we use a restricted package procedure in ON-VALIDATE-FIELD Trigger ? 
No
Is a Key startup trigger fires as result of a operator pressing a key explicitly ? 
No
Can we use GO-BLOCK package in a pre-field trigger ? 
No
Can we create two blocks with the same name in form 3.0 ? 
No
What does an on-clear-block Trigger fire? 
It fires just before SQL * forms the current block.
Name the two files that are created when you generate the form give the filex extension ? 
INP (Source File)
FRM (Executable File)
What package procedure used for invoke sql *plus from sql *forms ? 
Host (E.g. Host (sqlplus))
What are the different types of key triggers ? 
Function Key
Key-function
Key-others
Key-startup
What is the difference between a Function Key Trigger and Key Function Trigger ? 
Function key triggers are associated with individual SQL*FORMS function keys You can attach Key function triggers to 10 keys or key sequences that normally do not perform any SQL * FORMS operations. These keys referred as key F0 through key F9.
Committed block sometimes refer to a BASE TABLE ? 
False
Error_Code is a package proecdure ? 
a. True b. false
False

http://amaralam.blogspot.com/2013/06/oracle-reports-interview-questions.html?_sm_au_=itHDj3261JFD2tZr



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