What is SQL and why should beginners learn it in 2025?
These days, knowing how to work with data has become a basic skill required in most fields ،Whether you want to be a web developer, a data analyst, or even a digital marketer, learning SQL is a crucial step in your career، In this SQL tutorial for beginners, we'll explain what SQL is and how you can start learning it in 2025.
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| Beginner's guide to SQL:Learn the basics fast |
SQL (Structured Query Language) is the primary language used to interact with databases ،Whether you need to store, retrieve, or manage data, SQL is an essential tool in every field that requires data management، With the increasing reliance on data for decision-making, learning SQL has become an essential skill for any beginner in the technical field.
How to install SQL step by step for complete beginners
The first thing you need to do is determine the type of database you'll be using. We'll use MySQL as an example, as it's one of the most popular operating systems. Next, go to the MySQL website and download the appropriate version for your Windows or Mac computer.
Once you download the file, the installation process will begin very easily. You'll click "Next" at each step until the installation is complete. If you're a beginner, you can choose the default settings to make the process easier.
After the installation is complete, open MySQL Workbench to begin working with the database. Here, you'll be able to write your first SQL queries and learn how to manage databases in a basic way.
Top 10 basic SQL commands every beginner should know
SQL is the fundamental language for working with databases. If you're a beginner, there are important commands you need to know to get started in the world of SQL. We'll review the 10 most important commands that will help you get started.
• SELECT: Used to extract data from a table.
• INSERT: Adds new data to a table.
• UPDATE: Modifies existing data in a table.
• DELETE: Deletes data from a table.
• CREATE DATABASE: Creates a new database.
• DROP DATABASE: Deletes a database.
• CREATE TABLE: Creates a new table within a database.
• ALTER TABLE: Modifies the table structure (adding or deleting columns).
• JOIN: Joins tables together.
• WHERE: Specifies a condition in a query.
Note:
It's very important to start learning these commands step by step, as they form the foundation upon which you'll build your remaining SQL skills.
Understanding SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE in SQL
SELECT is the command used to retrieve data from a database. It allows you to specify the columns and rows you want to display. It can be used with conditions such as WHERE to display specific data.
INSERT is used to add new data to a specific table. In this command, you must specify the table name and the data you want to add. It is the basis for inserting new information into a database.
UPDATE is used to modify existing data in a database. Using it, you specify the columns you want to change with the new values. It is usually used with a WHERE clause to specify the data to be modified.
5. How to create your first SQL database – beginner-friendly guide
Creating a SQL database from scratch can be a bit difficult for beginners, but with this guide, you'll be able to create one easily. We'll walk you through the steps to create your first database.
1. The first step is to download and install MySQL or PostgreSQL on your machine.
2. After installation, open MySQL Workbench or pgAdmin.
3. Use the CREATE DATABASE command to create a new database.
4. Type the database name between the parentheses, for example: CREATE DATABASE my_database;
5. After entering the command, click "Run" to execute the code.
6. If you executed the code correctly, you'll find the new database in the databases list.
7. Use the USE my_database; command to run this database.
8. After that, you can start creating tables using CREATE TABLE.
Note:
Start implementing these steps on your device. You'll notice they'll be essential in learning how to work with SQL and help you build small projects with ease.
SQL vs Excel: which is better for managing data?
Excel is a popular tool for managing data using tables and charts. It's easy to use and easy to manipulate manually, making it ideal for small projects or limited data. However, as data volume increases, it can become difficult to control.
On the other hand, SQL is considered more powerful and efficient for managing large and complex data. It allows you to store data in an organized manner and retrieve it faster and more accurately using specific queries. This makes it a better tool for handling large databases.
The choice between SQL and Excel depends on the size and complexity of the data you're managing. If you're dealing with simple or limited data, Excel may be sufficient. However, if you're dealing with large databases, SQL is the better choice.
How to practice SQL online for free (no software needed)
If you want to practice SQL without downloading any software, there are many online sites that offer free training environments. Sites like SQLZoo and W3Schools offer interactive lessons that you can learn from practically.
Mode Analytics and Kaggle also offer an interactive SQL practice environment with real-world data examples. These sites allow you to write and run SQL queries directly from your browser.
The best thing about these sites is that they support beginners and provide challenges and solutions after you've written the code. This will help you learn quickly and apply the concepts practically without the need for any software.
Common SQL errors beginners make and how to fix them
When you start learning SQL, you'll encounter some common mistakes, especially in the beginning. If you know these mistakes and how to correct them, you'll be able to learn quickly and avoid future problems.
• Command errors: For example, typing SELECT instead of SELECT * FROM can result in data not being retrieved as intended.
• Forgetting commas: Forgetting commas between columns in INSERT or UPDATE statements can cause code execution problems.
• Table definition errors: When you type the wrong table name, SQL will not recognize it, which can cause problems with the query.
• Forgetting parentheses: Not using parentheses in commands can result in incorrect querying.
• Using reserved words: For example, using SELECT or FROM as table or column names can lead to code errors.
Note:
It's very important to practice these mistakes and learn how to avoid them. This will help you become more proficient in SQL and build more accurate and efficient queries.
The difference between MySQL, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server
MySQL is an open source database management system that is characterized by its speed and efficiency in handling data. This makes it the best choice for small and medium-sized enterprises, especially if you need simple and fast data management. MySQL also enjoys widespread support from the developer community.
PostgreSQL is a very powerful system and offers advanced features, such as handling complex data and multiple data types. It is considered the best choice for large systems that require high performance and accurate calculations. It is often used in large business applications.
Microsoft SQL Server is a paid system that is characterized by its excellent integration with the Windows environment. It also offers advanced tools and reports, making it the ideal choice for companies that need extensive support tools for SQL databases. It is considered more suitable for large enterprises.
Real-life examples of SQL queries for absolute beginners
First, it's very important to learn how to apply SQL to real data. To begin gaining practical experience, we'll provide you with some real-world examples of writing simple SQL queries.
• Extract all data from a table: SELECT * FROM employees;
• Select specific data using a condition: SELECT name, age FROM employees WHERE age > 30;
• Order data: SELECT name, salary FROM employees ORDER BY salary DESC;
• Add new data: INSERT INTO employees (name, age, salary) VALUES ('John', 25, 50000);
• Update data: UPDATE employees SET salary = 55000 WHERE name = 'John';
• Delete data: DELETE FROM employees WHERE name = 'John';
Note:
Practicing these queries on real data will help you learn more and understand how to use SQL in real projects. Practicing these examples is an important step in developing your skills.
conclusion
learning SQL is an essential step for anyone interested in working with databases. By learning the basics, such as basic commands and creating and retrieving data, you'll be prepared to apply SQL to your future projects. With continued training, your skills in the world of databases will rapidly develop.
