For an instructor lead, in-depth look at learning SQL click below.
As the sheer volume of data in the world continues to grow, so does the necessity of having professionals skilled in SQL, the standard language for dealing with relational databases. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out with SQL, or a seasoned programmer looking to sharpen your SQL skills, having the right learning resources can make a world of difference. In this post, we’ll take a look at different types of SQL learning resources and also provide you with some sample SQL code.
Books
For some, nothing beats the thoroughness of a good book. Books on SQL range in difficulty from beginner to expert, and they also vary in their approach. Some offer a more theoretical overview of databases and SQL, while others are very hands-on, offering numerous examples and exercises.
Example of SQL code – Selecting all fields from a table:
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SELECT * FROM Employees; |
Online Tutorials
Many SQL learners find that online tutorials offer more interactivity and the ability to work at one’s own pace compared to books. Again, there are resources available for all skill levels, and many are free of charge.
Example of SQL code – Selecting specific fields from a table:
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SELECT FirstName, LastName FROM Employees; |
Courses
For those who prefer a structured learning environment, taking an SQL course might be the best option. There are many platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning that offer comprehensive SQL courses, often taught by industry professionals.
Example of SQL code – Sorting the Results:
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SELECT * FROM Employees ORDER BY LastName; |
Practice, Practice, Practice
Finally, regardless of which resource you choose, remember that the most important aspect to master SQL is practice. Applying what you’ve learned by coding your own schemas, tables, and queries is the key to becoming proficient in SQL. Happy learning!