For an instructor lead, in-depth look at learning SQL click below.
The world today runs on data. Big data is the lifeblood of businesses across industry domains globally. But as a data professional, you already know that. The real question is – are you well-versed with the language of database management – SQL (Structured Query Language)?
What is SQL?
SQL is a programming language used for interacting with databases. As a relational database management language, it helps in manipulating and fetching data stored in databases. SQL can execute queries against a database, retrieve data from it, insert new records, delete records, update records, and create new databases and tables.
SQL for Data Analysis
How does this contribute towards data analysis? Here is a basic example:
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-- This SQL statement selects all data from the 'employees' table SELECT * FROM employees; |
The SQL query above will fetch every data entry in the ’employees’ table, allowing for further data analysis like identifying trends or finding specific data points.
As a data professional, knowing SQL immensely adds to your skillset. Here’s why:
1) SQL helps handle big data which is important in today’s business world.
2) Many of the top tech companies, startups, and firms use SQL.
3) It is an essential skill for data scientists and data analysts.
4) Almost every app that has a requirement to save data implements databases – SQL can work with them.
More SQL examples
Check out some further code snippets:
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-- SQL statement to select employees with a salary greater than 50000 SELECT * FROM employees WHERE salary>50000; |
The above code will select from the ’employees’ table all who have a salary greater than 50000.
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-- SQL command to update a record UPDATE employees SET EmployeeName ='John' WHERE EmployeeID = 1; |
This SQL command updates a record in the ’employees’ table, specifically renaming the employee with ID 1 to ‘John’.
Concluding Thoughts
Mastering SQL is a journey in itself. While there are other database management languages, SQL leads the pack with its versatility and widespread usage. For professionals in data-related domains, understanding SQL isn’t just recommended – it’s a must.
So, dive in, start exploring, and become a fluent SQL user to better handle, analyze and derive insights from your data.