What Pankush said above is correct.
However, when you do review table hints, you'll always want to throw in a comment about them being done only as a last resort, and only when you're very, very sure about current and expected future data distribution.
Overriding the optimizer should only be done sparingly, with express purpose, and with full knowledge of the consequences. That said, they're incredibly handy, especially when testing different indexes for usefulness and speed gains, as well as isolation controls.
Never stop learning, even if it hurts. Ego bruises are practically mandatory as you learn unless you've never risked enough to make a mistake.
For better assistance in answering your questions[/url] | Forum Netiquette
For index/tuning help, follow these directions.[/url] |Tally Tables[/url]
Twitter: @AnyWayDBA