The Language of SQL, Second Edition
Many SQL texts attempt to serve as an encyclopedic reference on SQL syntax—an approach that is often counterproductive, since this information is readily available in online references published by the major database vendors.?
For SQL beginners, it’s important for a book to focus on general concepts and offer clear explanations and examples of what the various statements can accomplish. This is that beginner book.?
A number of features make The Language of SQL unique among introductory SQL books:?
First, you will not be required to download software or sit with a computer as you read the text. The intent of this book is to provide examples of SQL usage that can be understood simply by reading them.?
Second, topics are organized in an intuitive and logical sequence. SQL keywords are introduced one at a time, allowing you to build on your prior understanding as you encounter new words and concepts.?
Finally, this book covers the syntax of three widely used databases: Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, and Oracle, with special “Database Differences” sidebars that show you any differences in the syntax among those three databases, as well as instructions on how to obtain and install free versions of the databases.?
This is the only book you’ll need to gain a quick working knowledge of SQL and relational databases.
You’ll learn:
- How to use SQL to retrieve data from a database
- How to update data in a database
- How to build and maintain a database
- How to design a relational database
- Strategies for displaying data after it has been retrieved
Contents at a Glance
1 ?Relational Databases and SQL
2 ?Basic Data Retrieval
3 ?Calculated Fields and Aliases
4 ?Using Functions
5 ?Sorting Data
6 ?Selection Criteria
7 ?Boolean Logic
8 ?Conditional Logic
9 ?Summarizing Data
10 Subtotals and Crosstabs
11 Inner Joins
12 Outer Joins
13 Self Joins and Views
14 Subqueries
15 Set Logic
16 Stored Procedures and Parameters
17 Modifying Data
18 Maintaining Tables
19 Principles of Database Design
20 Strategies for Displaying Data
A Getting Started with Microsoft SQL Server
B Getting Started with MySQL
C Getting Started with Oracle
