Note that if you're interested in learning about Oracle Database
12c, there's an updated version of this post
here.
When it comes to gathering statistics, one of the most critical
decisions you have to make is, what sample size should be used? A
100% sample will ensure accurate statistics but could take a really
long time. Whereas a 1% sample will finish quickly but could result
in poor statistics.
The ESTIMATE_PERCENT parameter in the DBMS_STATS.GATHER_*_STATS
procedures...