For an instructor lead, in-depth look at learning SQL click below.
L Basics: A Beginner’s Handbook for Database Management
Introduction
Welcome to your beginner’s guide to SQL, the language for managing and manipulating databases. SQL, or Structured Query Language, is a key tool for anyone wanting to understand data and derive insights from it. Whether you’re just starting your coding journey or hoping to pick up a new skill, this handbook will take you through SQL basics.
What is SQL?
SQL, which stands for Structured Query Language, is a standard programming language specifically designed for managing data held in a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS), or for processing data in a stream management system.
Getting Started
In order to execute SQL statements, you need a database. For beginners, I recommend installing MySQL or SQLite, which are easy-to-use database systems that you can download and set up on your computer.
An Introduction to SQL Syntax
SQL is made up of statements, which tell the database what to do. The most basic SQL operations are CRUD operations – Create, Read, Update, and Delete. Here’s how these look in SQL:
CREATE
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CREATE DATABASE my_database; |
This SQL statement creates a new database called ‘my_database’.
READ
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SELECT * FROM Customers; |
This SQL command fetches all columns (indicated by the asterisk) from the table named ‘Customers’.
UPDATE
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UPDATE Customers SET contactName = 'Juan' WHERE customerID = 1; |
This command updates the ‘ContactName’ to ‘Juan’ for the customer with a ‘CustomerID’ of 1 in the ‘Customers’ table.
DELETE
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DELETE FROM Customers WHERE customerID = 1; |
This SQL command deletes the customer with a ‘CustomerID’ of 1 from the ‘Customers’ table.
Conclusion
SQL is a powerful tool that’s essential for managing, analyzing and working with data. The examples shown in this article are just the tip of the SQL iceberg, and there’s much more to learn. Continue exploring, practicing, and learning, and you’ll quickly elevate your SQL abilities from beginner to expert.