To print large dataset of records in user friendly way, use any of these options. Option1# (open the records in linux 'less' editor - line by line format) mysql> pager less; mysql> select * from table\G; Option2# (open the records in linux 'less' editor - table format) mysql> pager less -SFX; mysql> select * from table; Escape character of 'less' is 'q'