An index is a method of allowing faster retrieval of records. An index creates an entry for each value that appears in the indexed columns. By default, Oracle creates B-tree indexes.
- B Tree
General purpose indexes in oracle, they are default indexes in oracle. B tree index can have at most 32 columns. - Bitmap
Bitmap indexes are ideal in cases where low number of distict values. It is ideal for DSS systems where more read happens. It can also have at most 32 columns. But it is used for less number of columns. - Hash
Indexes created on hash cluster - Index-organized table
An index orgnized table is a type of table that stores data in B Tree index structure that is logically sorted in primary key. - Reverse key
reverse key index works only on exact match. It does not use range scan. - Function based key
Indexes created on function based column - Partitioned (Local and Global)
Breaking indexes into pieces. - Bitmap join indexes
For details about B-Tree and Bit-Map indexes, please refer the link B-Tree/Bit-Map
Oracle documentation on index Index
Index and index orgnized table IOT