Loop Labels

Like the PL/SQL blocks, loops can also be labeled. The label, an undeclared identifier enclosed by double angle brackets, should appear at the beginning of the LOOP statement, as shown:

<>
LOOP
sequence_of_statements
END LOOP;

Optionally, the label name can also come out at the end of the LOOP statement, as the illustration below shows:

<>
LOOP
...
END LOOP my_loop;


If you nest labeled loops, you can use the ending label names to improve the readability. With either form of the EXIT statement, you cannot complete only the current loop, but also any of the enclosing loops. Merely, label the enclosing loop that you want to done. Then, use the label in an EXIT statement, as shown:

<>
LOOP
...
LOOP
...
EXIT outer WHEN ... -- exit both loops
END LOOP;
...
END LOOP outer;