SQL Server 2000 - T-SQL or ANSI SQL?

[Guest_imported]

I'm relatively new to working with SQL (self-taught over the last 18 months). My company has decided to switch to SQL Server 2000, and I'm trying to find a good training course. My understanding is that the Microsoft version of SQL is called Transact-SQL (T-SQL). So I figured that a course in T-SQL would be a good idea.

However, I posted a message to microsoft.public.certification, and one of the responses recommended going with a course on ANSI SQL. The person who wrote that reply said that even Microsoft says that ANSI SQL is the way to go.

So now I'm confused. What I need is a good course that will not only teach SQL basics, but will also cover the commands that are unique to the SQL Server 2000 DBMS. For the immediate future I will be focused entirely on coding reports, so I really just need to know how to use all the SQL commands that will be understood by SQL Server 2000. We have other people who will take care of installing, configuring, and maintaining SQL Server 2000 and the databases.

Given that I just need some good SQL training to help me code reports with SQL Server 2000, should go with T-SQL training or ANSI SQL training?

Also, what's the difference between T-SQL and ANSI SQL?

--Tom

 

[jitter]

From what I understand AnsiSQL is the general SQL language standard that has been agreed upon by the database vendors.

T-SQL is Microsofts version of SQL that contains additional syntax that can be used to perform desired operations.

I personally try to stick with ANSI wherever possible because I know that the code will be compatible with other databases.

If I absolutely can benefit from using T-SQL to help performance or something I will use it but I try to make a comment about it so if the day comes that it needs to be ported to another system I can use that comment as a flag to tell me this code might now work on the new system.

My favorite SQL Server is Professional SQL Server 2000 Programming from WROX. I found it to be a great book and the author is awesome.

I hope this helps you out....

 

[WilliamMathias]

Hi,

In my experience I've found thart using ANSI SQL wherever possible is less problematical, and more universally useful

I'd also like to reccomend the same book as jitter, it helped me loads.

good luck Will

 

[BeckahC]

I took a course in T-SQL, but they also taught the basics - Ansi-SQL. For SQL Server I think it's probably best to know both. BeckahC