How does one use the SQL*Plus utility?

Start using SQL*Plus by executing the "sqlplus" command-line utility. Valid options are:

 userid/password@db -- Connection details
 /nolog             -- Do not login to Oracle. You will need to do it yourself.
 -s or -silent      -- start sqlplus in silent mode. Not recommended for beginners!
 @myscript          -- Start executing script called "myscript.sql" 

Look at this example session:

 sqlplus /nolog
 SQL> connect scott/tiger
 SQL> select * from tab;
 SQL> disconnect
 SQL> exit

Please note that one must prepare the environment before starting sqlplus. Linux/ Unix example:

  $ . oraenv
  ORACLE_SID = [orcl] ? orcl
  $ sqlplus scott/tiger

Windows Example:

  Click on "Start" -> "Run" and enter "cmd"
  C:> set ORACLE_SID=orcl
  C:> sqlplus scott/tiger
 or
  C:> sqlplus scott/tiger@orcl