Context

Teams often need to centralize repeated database logic such as validations, updates, and batch operations. Stored procedures are one way to keep that logic close to the data.

Question

Explain what stored procedures are in PostgreSQL and when you would use them. In your answer, cover:

1. What a stored procedure is and how it differs from a regular SQL query or function
2. Typical use cases where stored procedures are a good fit
3. Benefits and drawbacks of using them
4. Situations where application-layer logic may be a better choice

Scope Guidance

Keep the answer practical and interview-focused. The interviewer expects a clear definition, a few realistic examples, and a balanced discussion of when stored procedures improve maintainability, security, or performance versus when they add complexity.