This is the rare case of a book that can take you from a beginner to an advanced-intermediate level. Like many of the books in IDG's Dummies series, this volume begins with a definition ("What is SQL?") and ends with "The Part of Tens," a collection of tips in a top ten list form. Taylor writes in a breezy, entertaining style that SQL novices will find inviting. One caveat: The examples are given in Borland's Delphi, a rapid application development (RAD) tool. Some sections show several screen shots from Delphi and it may be difficult to follow along in these sections if you don't have the program in front of you. As with other Dummies books, SQL for Dummies is entertaining to read although the nonstop jokes may distract some readers from the technical content.
Book Description
Many database management system (DBMS) tools run on a variety of hardware platforms. The differences among the tools can be many, but all serious products have one thing in common: They support data access and manipulation in SQL, the industry-standard language specifically designed to enable people to create and manage databases. If you know SQL, you can build relational databases and get useful information out of them.
Relational database management systems are vital to many organizations. People often think that creating and maintaining these systems are extremely complex activities – the domain of database gurus who possess enlightenment beyond that of ordinary mortals. Well, SQL For Dummies, 5th Edition, sweeps away the database mystique.
Written in easy-to-understand terms and updated with the latest information on SQL, this handy reference shows you step-by-step how to make your database designs a reality using SQL:2003. But you don't have to be a database newbie to find value in SQL For Dummies, 5th Edition; even if you have some experience designing and creating databases, you may discover a few things you didn't know about.
Here's just a sampling of some of the things you'll find covered in SQL For Dummies, 5th Edition: Exploring relational database and SQL fundamentals Building and maintaining a simple database structure Building a multiple relational database Manipulating database data Examining SQL nuts and bolts: values, expressions, operators, and queries Providing database security and protecting your data Exploring ODBC and JDBC, and using SQL with XML Moving beyond the basics: cursors, persistent stored modules, and error-handling Top Ten lists on common SQL mistakes and retrieval tips
Plain and simply, databases are the best tools ever invented for keeping track of the things you care about. After you understand databases and can use SQL to make them do your bidding, you wield tremendous power. SQL For Dummies, 5th Edition, can get you well on your way to harnessing the power of databases.
Book Info
Guide to using SQL, written in plain English. Fully updated with all-new coverage for SQL:2003. Previous edition: c2001. Softcover.
From the Back Cover
Discover how SQL:2003 handles images, XML files, and more Use SQL to build databases, keep them safe, and access their information Relationships are everything, especially when it comes to databases – so if you work with them, form a relationship with this book. It helps you use SQL to build databases, protect them from corruption, store and retrieve what you need, handle nonrelational data, and even swap information with nondatabase applications using XML. The Dummies Way Explanations in plain English "Get in, get out" information Icons and other navigational aids Tear-out cheat sheet Top ten lists A dash of humor and fun
About the Author
Allen G. Taylor is a database instructor who has written 20 computer books. He operates a Web development company and is much in demand as a speaker.
SQL for Dummies FROM OUR EDITORS
Here is your personal tutor for SQL, the industry-standard language for "talking" to databases and getting the information you need. Get an insider's tour of databases and client-server systems, then learn the ABCs of SQL, working your way up to sophisticated commands and statements.
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Relationships are everything, especially when it comes to databases -- so if you work with them, form a relationship with this book. It helps you use SQL to build databases, protect them from corruption, store and retrieve what you need, handle nonrelational data, and even swap information with nondatabase applications using XML.
SYNOPSIS
Become your own database guru and master the art and craft of SQL (structured query language) to access, manage, and manipulate data in a variety of relational database software programs. Get the inside tour of the major components of SQL with a copy of SQL For Dummies, 3rd Edition, by programming pro Allen Taylor. Whether you're seeking a friendly summary of basic SQL commands and statements -- or you're looking for advanced advice on database security, error handling, nested queries, ODBC, and dynamic SQL -- you'll find what you need in this book's easy-to-follow steps and examples, all written in clear, concise language.
Invoke the power of SQL without headaches and hassles as you progress from relational database fundamentals to building your own databases, retrieving data, controlling operations, and transferring data across a company intranet or the worldwide Internet. SQL For Dummies, 3rd Edition, also includes a glossary of important terms and three appendixes that cover reserved words in SQL-92, multilevel SQL subsets, and SQL implementation in Microsoft SQL Server 7.0. And, of course, this handy SQL reference includes the popular Part of Tens, where you can get the high-end lowdown on what to do, and what not to do, in designing, building, and using a relational database.
Art & Photography
Book Info
