For an instructor lead, in-depth look at learning SQL click below.
Welcome newcomers to the dynamic world of SQL, or Structured Query Language. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive beginners’ guide to get you started with SQL, the essential tools to use and also some exemplary SQL codes to help you familiarize with the syntax.
What is SQL?
SQL stands for Structured Query Language and it is the standard language for dealing with Relational Databases. SQL programming can allow you to insert, update, delete, and extract data from a database. It also facilitates the users to perform various tasks like creating and modifying databases, tables, views, and stored procedures.
Why Do You Need SQL?
With SQL, you can answer complicated questions using a rather easy syntax. You can quickly store, manipulate and retrieve the data stored in Relational Databases. Whether you’re a business analyst, data scientist, marketer, or web developer, SQL is a critical skill set that can benefit your career.
Essential SQL Tools
Here’s a list of essential tools to get you started.
MySQL Workbench/SQL Server Management Studio
These are integrated environment tools that simplify SQL database design, administration, development, and common database tasks. They provide visual tools that guide you through the database design and query developments.
SQLite
A popular choice for the database engine in cell phones, PDAs, MP3 players with a phenomenal reliability score. It’s a server-less database and is self-contained, which is used widely in industries and services.
PostgreSQL
This is an advanced open-source relational database that accentuates extensibility and SQL compliance. PostgreSQL has a proven architecture with a reputation for reliability, robustness, and performance.
Introduction to SQL Syntax
Now, let’s get you familiar with how SQL codes look like with simple examples:
Selecting data from a table:
|
1 2 3 |
SELECT * FROM Employee; |
Inserting data into a table:
|
1 2 3 |
INSERT INTO Employee (ID, Name, Age) VALUES (101, 'John', 28); |
Updating data in a table:
|
1 2 3 |
UPDATE Employee SET Age = 29 WHERE ID = 101; |
Deleting data from a table:
|
1 2 3 |
DELETE FROM Employee WHERE ID = 101; |
Conclusion
As you delve deeper into SQL, you’ll realize the immense potential this simple programming language has to offer. But like everything else, the first step is to begin. So grab these resources, start tinkering, and in no time, you’ll find yourself manipulating databases like a pro!