Best way to learn SQL?

[iambusto]

you can use both. If i am writing a query involving only 2 to 3 tables, i dont use the gui and just write out the simple FROM a, b WHERE a.x = b.x. if its a multiple tables complex query, i would rather use the gui and the query would come out using the "inner join" syntax. both work, just a personal preference. I hope that makes sense....

[iambusto]

try google first....would give you a good grasp on basics. there are even some sites that allow you to execute queries against their server so you can test real time without going through the hassle of setting up your own database in your home computer.

then when you feel better about your sql knowledge go buy some book off of amazon ratings...

sql is very easy....

[moondogg]

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you can use both. If i am writing a query involving only 2 to 3 tables, i dont use the gui and just write out the simple FROM a, b WHERE a.x = b.x. if its a multiple tables complex query, i would rather use the gui and the query would come out using the "inner join" syntax. both work, just a personal preference. I hope that makes sense....

[/ QUOTE ]

Given that using JOINs are very simple to use and much more powerful, why would you use the "FROM a,b" approach?

Everytime I've seen that "FROM a,b" stuff used, coincidentally the developer didn't know what the hell he was doing.

[TiK]

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there are even some sites that allow you to execute queries against their server so you can test real time without going through the hassle of setting up your own database in your home computer.

[/ QUOTE ]

Oh man, I wish I'd known about this about 3 years ago.

[turnipmonster]

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Are you saying to do joins by "FROM a, b WHERE a.x = b.x"

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fwiw this is called a "theta join".