What are the purposes of using the limit in MySQL?

In MySQL, the LIMIT statement is used to restrict the number of rows returned in a query. It is typically used in combination with the SELECT statement to specify the starting position and quantity of results returned, making it easier to paginate data or limit the number of results returned.

The main purpose of the LIMIT statement includes:

1. Pagination of data: By setting the starting position and quantity in the LIMIT statement, it is possible to display data in pages within the query results, making it easier for users to browse through large amounts of data.
2. Limit the number of results: You can use the LIMIT statement to restrict the number of rows returned in a query, preventing an overload of data and improving query performance.
3. To retrieve the top N data: Using the LIMIT statement to return the first N rows in the query results achieves the function of obtaining the top N data.
4. Skip a specific number of lines: By setting the starting position of the LIMIT statement, you can skip a specified number of lines, allowing you to locate a specific line in the query results.

In general, the LIMIT statement in MySQL is primarily used to limit the number of rows returned in a query, making it easier to display and process data.