This week we began learning SQL- Structured Query Language which is something I had heard of but had no idea why we needed to use it.
SQL lets you access and manipulate databases. This can be used for querying, updating and organising data stored in databases. It is also a way of managing data before connecting to a data visualisatio software such as Tableau and Power BI.
What is a Query?
A query is a request for information or data from a database. It is essentially a command written in a database language to manipulate the data in some way.
SQL is a type of coding language that lets you interact with databases to retrieve and manipulate the data by creating queries
Why is SQL useful?
Data Management:
- Can retrieve, insert, update and delete data stored in databases.
- Can also create new tables
Querying capabilities
- SQL supports complex queries
- These queries can allow a user to filter, sort, group and aggregate data
- it is similar to tableau prep, alteryx or any data cleaning software in this way
Easy to use
- It may not seem it immediately but SQL has quite an accessible language that can be essentially learned by anyone
- It also provides suggestions for columns etc. to save you from typing a lot out.
Handles large datasets
- SQL is optimal for handling large scale datasets
Data Transformation
- SQL allows certain data transformation directly within the database
- For example, you can create ID fields, concatenate fields and reshape data (pivots)
- Very useful for joining data
Integrates with Analytics tools
- Many tools have built in SQL connectors allowing a user to seamlessly connect their SQL with their visualisations tools.
- e.g. Tableau and Power BI let you connect to SQL databases
Repeatability and Automation
- SQL queries can be saved and reused for regular analytics
- Ensures consistency over time, which can be crucial in a corporate environment
- Important for recurring reports and automated workflows