trace file

Hi,
I wnted to know what exactly does a trace file do? Does it only report errors? Please help.

Thanks.

you can backup the controlfile to trace for recovery purpose

Typically, when you are talking about a trace file, you are talking about a SQL Trace. The Trace file will contain the queries being executed as well as timing information. To view this trace file in a readable format, you will probably use tkprof.

I have a trace file which I was asked to look at. I am not sure for what.
Does it show any errors?

No, typically a SQL Trace file will not show errors.

then what does it show?

The Trace file will contain the queries being executed as well as timing information. To view this trace file in a readable format, you will probably use tkprof.