I often include such columns during ad-hoc analytics, because it is one valid example of the data being grouped. In particular, when COUNT(*) is 1 the value in that column is THE value, and thanks to including it in the query, I already have it. It's very convenient with very low cost.
For queries that are part of a formal process or application it's harder to find a use case.
[+] [-] Jare|14 years ago|reply
For queries that are part of a formal process or application it's harder to find a use case.