Get Started Fast with SQL!

The only book you need to gain a quick working knowledge of SQL and relational databases.

Many SQL texts attempt to serve as an encyclopedic reference on SQL syntax―an approach that is often counterproductive because that information is readily available in online references published by the major database vendors.

For SQL beginners, it's more important for a book to focus on general concepts and to offer clear explanations and examples of what various SQL statements can accomplish. This is that book.

Several 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.

Second, topics are organized in an intuitive and logical sequence. SQL keywords are introduced one at a time, allowing you to grow your understanding as you encounter new terms and concepts.

Finally, this book covers the syntax of the latest releases of three widely used databases: Microsoft SQL Server 2019, MySQL 8.0, and Oracle 18c. Special “Database Differences” sidebars clearly show you any differences in syntax among these three databases, and instructions are included on how to obtain and install free versions of the databases.

• Use SQL to retrieve data from relational databases
• Apply functions and calculations to data
• Group and summarize data in a variety of useful ways
• Use complex logic to retrieve only the data you need
• Design relational databases so that data retrieval is easy and intuitive
• Update data and create new tables
• Use spreadsheets to transform your data into meaningful displays
• Retrieve data from multiple tables via joins, subqueries, views, and set logic
• Create, modify, and execute stored procedures
• Install Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, or Oracle

Table of Contents

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 Using Excel

A. Getting Started with Microsoft SQL Server

B. Getting Started with MySQL

C. Getting Started with Oracle

About the Author

Larry Rockoff has been involved with SQL and business intelligence development for many years. His main area of interest is in using reporting tools to explore and analyze data in complex databases. He holds an MBA from the University of Chicago and a BFA from the University of Illinois. In addition to writing about SQL, he has also published books on Microsoft Excel and Access. His latest editions of those texts are Exploring Data with Excel 2019 and Exploring Data with Access 2019. He also maintains a website that features book reviews on technology topics, as well as broader issues regarding technology and society: larryrockoff.com Please feel free to visit that site to contact the author with any comments or questions.