SQL is a programming language specifically used for relational databases. SQL is not supported by Data Services but provided below are some resources for learning SQL.
Common database management systems (DBMS) include Oracle, PostgreSQL, SQLite, MySQL and Microsoft SQL Server. Each system has its own syntax intricacies but learning standard SQL first should be a good start before learning the specifics of any system. XAMPP is a PHP development enviornment which can be used as a testing enviornment for learning SQL. (See video tutorial below.)
This link opens in a new windowNYU Library databases likely to contain relevant resources:
Selected books on the topic (available online):
The Language of SQL by
Most SQL texts attempt to serve as an encyclopedic reference on SQL syntax -- an approach that is counterproductive, since this 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 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" boxes that will 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 working knowledge of SQL and relational databases.
SQL for Microsoft Access by
This book unlocks the power of Structured Query Language in Microsoft Access. It guides the reader through step-by-step realistic examples of creating databases in Microsoft Access, using SQL script to create table, adding records to tables and retrieving and managing records.
PROC SQL by Example by
In PROC SQL by Example: Using SQL within SAS, author Howard Schreier illustrates the use of PROC SQL in the context of the SAS DATA step and other SAS procedures (such as SORT, FREQ, MEANS, SUMMARY, APPEND, DATASETS, and TRANSPOSE) whose functionality overlaps and complements that of SQL. Using a side-by-side approach, this concise reference guide includes many extensively explained examples showing equivalent DATA step and SQL code, enabling SAS users to take advantage of existing SAS skills and knowledge while learning about SQL. Discussions cover the differences between SQL and the DATA step as well as situations where SQL and the DATA step are used together to benefit from the strengths of each. Topics addressed include working with joins and merges; using subqueries; understanding set operators; using the Macro Facility with PROC SQL; maintaining tables; working with views; using PROC SQL as a report generator; and more. This text is ideal for SAS programmers seeking to add PROC SQL to their SAS toolkits as well as SQL programmers striving to better integrate the SAS DATA step and SQL.
SQL Clearly Explained by
This is the second edition of the popular practitioner's guide to SQL, the industry-standard database query language. Like most computer languages, SQL can be overwhelming when you first see it, but for years readers have relied on this book to clear the confusion and explain how SQL works and how to use it effectively. Packed with tips, tricks, and good information, SQL Clearly Explained, Second Edition teaches database users and programmers everything they need to know to get their job done including · formulating SQL queries, · understanding how queries are processed by the DBMS, · maximizing performance, · using SQL to enter, modify, or delete data, · creating and maintaining database structural elements, and · embedding SQL in applications. Features · Updated and expanded to include changes in the SQL standard (SQL:1999) as well as recently implemented aspects of SQL-92. · Includes CD with examples from the book as well as MySQL, a popular open-source DBMS, on which the examples are based. · Web enhanced with extra features available online at www.mkp.com. * Second edition of classic SQL handbook * Updated to cover changes in the SQL language standard (SQL:1999) * Includes CD with MySQL software
