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If you work with databases frequently, you might have to occasionally write basic SQL queries to retrieve and manipulate the data you need. The best way to write SQL commands is in SQL Server Management Studio. Luckily, it's pretty easy, even if you're a beginner to writing SQL. We'll show you some basic commands, like the SELECT statement, INSERT statement, and more!
1) SELECT - This command is used to retrieve information from a table
2) INSERT - This command is used to add information to a table
3) UPDATE - This command is used to modify information to a table
4) DELETE - This command is used to remove information from a table
Steps
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Click on Start --> All Programs --> Microsoft SQL Server (2005/2008) --> SQL Server Management Studio -
Next Login with your credentials to the ServerAdvertisement -
Now right click on the Northwind Database and choose New Query -
In the new Query Window, enter the following command for SELECT -
This is the syntax for SELECT - SELECT * FROM Employees -
This is the syntax for INSERT -
INSERT INTO Employees VALUES('col1', 'col2') - Replace col1 and col2 with actual Values as shown below
INSERT INTO Employees values('Anil','anil@company.com')
This inserts a single row into the table.
In the even you wish to enter multiple rows at one go, you see the following command
INSERT INTO Employees values('Anna','anna@company.com'), INSERT INTO Employees values('Krystel','krystel@company.com'), INSERT INTO Employees values('Lines','lines@company.com'). The key difference here is that every value is appended by a comma -
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Tips
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- Use the SQL Server Management Studio Code Snippets as hints to better your SQL Writing Skills
- As you become more comfortable writing Queries, Use the SQL Query Designer to build sophisticated queries
Warnings
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- Never use DELETE without a WHERE Clause in your Statements to prevent accidental deletion of rows
- Same rule applies to UPDATE and INSERT as well
- Always use Caution when working with the DELETE command.
Community Q&A
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QuestionCan you explain the steps from creation of a database to the retrieval of data from it?Community AnswerDatabase management is more complex than a single question and answer can explain. There are many free tutorials online. Start by googling "SQL tutorial" and see what you find.
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