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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Practical SQL summary
Anthony DeBarros
Brief summary
Practical SQL by Anthony DeBarros is a comprehensive guide that teaches the fundamental concepts of SQL with practical examples. It covers everything from querying and analyzing data to optimizing performance and implementing advanced techniques.
Topics
Table of Contents
Practical SQL
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Basics of SQL
In Practical SQL by Anthony DeBarros, we start by understanding the basics of SQL (Structured Query Language). We learn about the importance of SQL in managing and manipulating data in relational databases. The author introduces us to the SELECT statement, which is used to retrieve data from a database, and we get to understand the different components of this statement.
DeBarros then delves into the concept of filtering data using the WHERE clause. He explains how to use logical operators and comparison operators to refine our data retrieval process. We also get to understand the importance of using aliases to make our query results more readable.
Working with Data and Functions
Next, Practical SQL takes us through the process of sorting and grouping data using the ORDER BY and GROUP BY clauses. We learn how to sort data in ascending and descending order and how to group data based on specific columns. The author also introduces us to aggregate functions such as COUNT, SUM, AVG, MIN, and MAX, which are used to perform calculations on groups of rows.
We then move on to exploring the use of mathematical functions, string functions, and date functions in SQL. DeBarros demonstrates how these functions can be used to perform various operations on our data, such as calculating percentages, manipulating text, and working with date and time values.
Creating and Modifying Database Tables
In Practical SQL, we also learn about the Data Definition Language (DDL) in SQL, which is used to create and modify database objects. The author explains how to create, alter, and drop database tables, and we get to understand the different data types that can be used to define table columns.
We then move on to exploring the concept of constraints in SQL, such as primary keys, foreign keys, unique constraints, and check constraints. DeBarros explains how these constraints help maintain data integrity and prevent the entry of invalid data into our database tables.
Retrieving Data from Multiple Tables
As we progress through Practical SQL, we encounter the challenges of working with data distributed across multiple tables. The author introduces us to the concept of table joins, which allow us to retrieve data from multiple tables based on common columns. We learn about different types of joins, including inner joins, outer joins, and cross joins, and understand when to use each type.
DeBarros also discusses subqueries and derived tables, which are used to perform complex data retrievals involving multiple levels of nesting. We get to understand how these techniques can be used to solve various real-world data analysis problems.
Manipulating and Summarizing Data
Further into the book, Practical SQL takes us through the process of updating and deleting data in our database tables using the UPDATE and DELETE statements. We learn about the importance of using the WHERE clause to specify which rows should be updated or deleted.
Finally, the author introduces us to the concept of views and stored procedures, which are used to encapsulate complex queries and data manipulation operations. We also learn about the importance of indexing in optimizing query performance and understand how to create and manage indexes in our database tables.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Practical SQL by Anthony DeBarros provides a comprehensive and practical guide to mastering SQL. The book equips us with the essential skills needed to work with relational databases, perform complex data retrievals and manipulations, and optimize database performance. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced SQL user, this book offers valuable insights and techniques to help you become more proficient in managing and analyzing data using SQL.
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What is Practical SQL about?
Practical SQL by Anthony DeBarros is a comprehensive guide that takes you through the essential concepts and practical applications of SQL. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced programmer, this book provides clear explanations and real-world examples to help you master SQL and effectively manage your data.
Practical SQL Review
Practical SQL (2018) by Anthony DeBarros is a comprehensive guide for mastering SQL skills and database management. Here's why this book is a gem:
- Provides clear explanations and hands-on exercises for understanding complex SQL concepts effortlessly.
- Offers practical tips and tricks for optimizing SQL queries and improving database performance.
- Uses real-world examples and case studies to make learning SQL engaging and applicable to various industries.
Who should read Practical SQL?
Professionals who work with data and want to improve their SQL skills
Students or individuals looking to learn SQL for career advancement
Anyone who wants a practical and hands-on approach to mastering SQL
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Practical SQL FAQs
What is the main message of Practical SQL?
The main message of Practical SQL is mastering SQL for effective data analysis.
How long does it take to read Practical SQL?
Reading Practical SQL takes some hours, while the Blinkist summary can be read in minutes.
Is Practical SQL a good book? Is it worth reading?
Worth reading for its practical insights on SQL efficiency.
Who is the author of Practical SQL?
Anthony DeBarros is the author of Practical SQL.
What to read after Practical SQL?
If you're wondering what to read next after Practical SQL, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Big Data by Viktor Mayer-Schönberger and Kenneth Cukier
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- Brave New War by John Robb
- Abundance# by Peter H. Diamandis and Steven Kotler
- The Signal and the Noise by Nate Silver
- You Are Not a Gadget by Jaron Lanier
- The Future of the Mind by Michio Kaku
- The Second Machine Age by Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee
- Out of Control by Kevin Kelly