In a method for generating a query plan for time series data, a query for time series data is received, the query including elements. The query is parsed to identify the elements and operators between the elements. First stages for a plurality of paths of execution are determined based at least in part on the elements and the operators. At least a first stage for the plurality of paths of execution is executed. The plurality of paths of execution is evaluated after completion of the first stage. Based on the evaluating, a subset of paths of execution is selected for continued execution and evaluation.