SQL

 

SQL

 

What does SQL stand for? 

SQL stands for Structured Query Language. Initially, the name of the language was meant to be Sequel (Structured English Query Language). However, due to copyright, the name was shortened to SQL.

What is SQL?

What is structured query language, you ask? SQL is the set of instructions used to interact with databases. It allows users to create, retrieve, update, and delete data. Of course, this is a straightforward definition for such a complex subject. Let’s go a little deeper.

• 1. SQL is a special-purpose programming language designed for managing data stored in a relational database management system. 
• 2. SQL is the language with which a coder communicates with a database to manipulate its data.
• 3. It is their guiding hand, voice, and fingertips dragging across a screen, helping the coder navigate and organise the data as they see fit. 
• 4. It is how a coder converses with the machine.

• What is SQL used for?

  SQL is used for database architecture and management – making it a vital tool for anyone who wishes to pursue a career as a database administrator.

  For those unfamiliar with programming languages and website architecture, the work of SQL will often go unnoticed. Still, those who have seen behind the curtain will know it as one of the fundamental building blocks of modern database architecture.

  Why is SQL important? 

  SQL provides a standardised method for interacting with databases, making it possible for users to work with different database systems regardless of the vendor. Additionally, SQL is widely used in data analytics and business intelligence applications, as it enables users to extract meaningful insights from large datasets. Invented in the 1970s, SQL has since become one of the most widely used programming languages for managing and querying databases.

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• Using SQL

• 1. Data retrieval: SQL can be used to retrieve specific information from a database based on certain criteria.
• 2. Data Modification: Developers can use SQL to insert new records, update existing information, and even to delete information from a database.  
• 3. Data Management: SQL can help manage the structure of a database. It can create tables, define relationships between tables, and set constraints to ensure data integrity.
• 4. Data Analysis: SQL is used to analyse data. It can aggregate data, calculate statistics, and generate reports.
• 5. Data Integration: You can use SQL to combine data from different sources into a single dataset.

Benefits of using SQL

Originally designed at IBM in the early 1970s, SQL is still just as strong as it was back then – its ability to adapt and evolve makes it uncomplicated and easy to use. Sure, it may be one of the oldest languages, but SQL has still got ‘it’. 

Where so many programming languages have failed to adapt over time, SQL has cemented its place as the backbone of data architecture. Want to hear more? Here are some of its benefits:

1. Efficient Use: One of the significant benefits of the SQL database language is that it allows users to quickly insert, update, delete, or retrieve data with simple commands. 
2. Remote Access: Users can use administrative functions and manage a database a lot easier – as well as remotely access data by using SQL. 
3. Universally Used: Another benefit of SQL is that it is widely used among various platforms.

SQL commands

Below are some common SQL commands.

• SELECT – used to retrieve data from a database
• INSERT – used to insert data into a database
• UPDATE – used to update data in a database
• DELETE – used to delete data from a database
• CREATE – used to create a new table, database, or view
• ALTER – used to alter the structure of an existing table or database
• DROP – used to drop a table or database
• TRUNCATE – used to remove all data from a table
• JOIN – used to combine data from two or more tables
• GROUP BY – used to group data based on a certain column or expression
• ORDER BY – used to sort data based on a certain column or expression
• WHERE – used to filter data based on a certain condition
• HAVING – used to filter data based on a certain condition after grouping

For More: https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/sql-tutorial/