Chapter 2
SQL Fundamentals
IN THIS CHAPTER
Understanding SQL
Clearing up SQL misconceptions
Taking a look at the different SQL standards
Getting familiar with standard SQL commands and reserved words
Representing numbers, characters, dates, times, and other data types
Exploring null values and constraints
Putting SQL to work in a client/server system
Considering SQL on a network
SQL is a flexible language that you can use in a variety of ways. It’s the most widely used tool for communicating with a relational database. In this chapter, I explain what SQL is and isn’t — specifically, what distinguishes SQL from other types of computer languages. Then I introduce the commands and data ...
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