SQL Training

[KristieLee1]

Hello All!

I am fairly new to SQL and was hoping for some suggestions on training. I'm not a math geek (only wish I was) and am struggling with the concepts behind some of the sql statements I have to use.

I am self taught (strike two, strike one was me calling you math geeks), and without any strong leadership in this area.
I'd like to know if there is a list of sql functions and their definitions, as well as example material? I get the basic if then statements, but beyond that I struggle.

I am working in Cognos 8.3 now, but work in Access as well. I am looking for online resources or courses that could provide more exposure to actual sql coding.

Thanks to all in advance

 

[gmmastros]

actual sql coding

I'm not exactly sure what you mean by this. There are many variations of SQL. SQL is an acronym for "Structured Query Language". It's not specific to any database. But... when you write SQL, you need to execute is against a database.

You mentioned Cognos and Access. Are you trying to improve your skills in that area? This forum is for Microsoft SQL Server. You probably won't get a lot of Cognos or Access advice in here.

But... if you want to learn about SQL Server, you've come to the right place. There are free versions of SQL Server that you can download and use (google for "SQL Express" and "SQL Server Management Studio Express"). There are a ton of resources on the net to help you learn.

Good luck.

-George

"The great things about standards is that there are so many to choose from." - Fortune Cookie Wisdom

 

[markros]

There was a similar thread on this topic about a month or 2 back.

To learn the basics of SQL query language visit

http://www.w3schools.com

website

 

[KristieLee1]

I am working in Cognos and Access, but am looking to improve my SQL skills. its a pain in the butt using Access and Cognos sometimes. I can read the sql behind it, but modifying it or identifying the reasons why my queries don't work is frustrating.

Thanks a bunch! Oh and expect lots of annoying questions from a frustrated learner who wishes she was as good as everyone else!

 

[SQLSister]

Here is one place to start. Basic joins are pretty simliar across databases.

http://www.tek-tips.com/faqs.cfm?fid=4785

"NOTHING is more important in a database than integrity." ESquared

 

[Ray1127]

I'd recommend the book Database Design for mere mortals. It's a great book on database design concepts and is universal across all DB Systems.

 

[MasterRacker]

You said you're self-taught and new at SQL. I would not worry so much about SQL syntax. Start by getting a solid foundation of why a database is structures the way it is. Once you're got that, the path to writing queries becomes much clearer.

Here's a quick, free primer:

http://www.deeptraining.com/litwin/dbdesign/FundamentalsOfRelationalDatabaseDesign.aspx

From there, a book like the one Ray recommended would be a great next step.

Jeff
[small][purple]It's never too early to begin preparing for [/purple]International Talk Like a Pirate Day
"The software I buy sucks, The software I write sucks. It's time to give up and have a beer..." - Me[/small]

 

[KristieLee1]

Thank you so much for the suggestions. I appreciate it!

 

[TysonLPrice]

Take a look here:

http://www.w3schools.com/SQl/default.asp

 

[mrdenny]

Google for your local SQL Server User Group. They provide a great local resource IT Pros and Devs. They provide free (or very very cheep) training and give you a good network of SQL Professionals in your area.

Denny
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