PostgreSQL Performance Tips for Backend Devs

Your ORM hides the SQL, but the database still runs it. Here's how to make it fast.

Use EXPLAIN ANALYZE

Always check query plans before optimizing. Look for sequential scans on large tables.

Indexing Strategy

• Index columns used in WHERE, JOIN, and ORDER BY
• Use partial indexes for filtered queries
• Composite indexes for multi-column lookups
• Don't over-index — each index slows writes

Connection Pooling

Use PgBouncer or built-in pooling. Opening a new connection per request is expensive.

Tips

• Use LIMIT and pagination — never fetch all rows
• Batch inserts with unnest or COPY
• Monitor slow queries with pg_stat_statements
• Vacuum regularly to prevent table bloat