|[pic] | SQL is a standard computer language for accessing and manipulating databases. |
| |In this tutorial you will learn how to use SQL to access and manipulate data in Oracle, Sybase, SQL |
| |Server, DB2, Access, and other database systems. |
Introduction to SQL
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SQL is a standard computer language for accessing and manipulating databases.
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What is SQL?
• SQL stands for Structured Query Language • SQL allows you to access a database • SQL is an ANSI standard computer language • SQL can execute queries against a database • SQL can retrieve data from a database • SQL can insert new records in a database • SQL can delete records from a database • SQL can update records in a database • SQL is easy to learn
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SQL is a Standard - BUT....
SQL is an ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard computer language for accessing and manipulating database systems. SQL statements are used to retrieve and update data in a database. SQL works with database programs like MS Access, DB2, Informix, MS SQL Server, Oracle, Sybase, etc.
Unfortunately, there are many different versions of the SQL language, but to be in compliance with the ANSI standard, they must support the same major keywords in a similar manner (such as SELECT, UPDATE, DELETE, INSERT, WHERE, and others).
Note: Most of the SQL database programs also have their own proprietary extensions in addition to the SQL standard!
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SQL Database Tables
A database most often contains one or more tables. Each table is identified by a name (e.g. "Customers" or "Orders"). Tables contain records (rows) with data.
Below is an example of a table called "Persons":
|LastName |FirstName