If it wasn't evident in its name SQL, or Structured Query Language, is a language that will require practice to perfect. If you learn the basics but don't implement consistent practice, you will likely forget much of what you have learned, and struggle when you enter the data analytics space.
Take a look at this word cloud recently created by Dustin Schimek, a data analyst who is super involved in the data community and helping people find their way in the industry space. (His LinkedIn will be posted below make sure to check him out!)
As you can see, 'SQL' pops up in a huge amount of data analytics job postings. Although the common business intelligence and visualization tools are also referenced many times, they just represent a fraction of what a data analyst will do. Extracting and preparing data from a database is a critical part of the job, so dive into some of the useful resources below and start practicing!
1. Before you start, have an SQL Cheat Sheet
I love SQL cheat sheets because a single page of information can cover 90% of the things you'll have to do within SQL. Before you dive into different games and challenges, have a cheat sheet for quick referencing. Check out this cheat sheet from @swapnakpanda. With a description of each category and a thorough list of examples, this is a great reference tool when practicing. (The Twitter page of this wonderful creator will be linked below!)
2. W3 Schools SQL Training (Beginner)
W3 has an intro to SQL that covers a ton of different commands with examples to practice within each section. Apart from a thorough list of subjects to train on, there are final quizzes and even a certification. Check them out with this link: https://www.w3schools.com/sql/sql_intro.asp.
3. SQL Bolt (Beginner)
Similar to W3 schools, SQL Bolt gives you good initial training on SQL, but it is more geared towards active learning, with less explanation and more practice. This can be good once you have a basic overview of SQL and feel as if you want to start applying what you have learned to some real data within a database. Find it at: https://sqlbolt.com/
4. SQL Murder Mystery 🔪 (Beginner - Intermediate)
A murder has been committed, and it is up to you to find the culprit! In this short but fun SQL game, you are tasked with using all of your SQL abilities to find the murderer. With a decent-sized database to extract data from and a well-fleshed-out schema, this game is great practice once you have familiarized yourself with the basics of SQL and want to test your skills. You can find it here: https://mystery.knightlab.com/
5. Codewars
Codewars is a great website that teaches a range of programs through fun challenges based on your skill level. Once you have signed up, choose SQL as the program you want to learn and start earning 'Kata' from correctly solving problems. There is an active and growing community in Codewars so you are always checking your answers against others and refining your own SQL based on best practices. Check it out here: https://www.codewars.com/
There are a ton more SQL resources out there but these were just a few of my favorites. Make sure to check them out and connect with the community to refine your SQL!
Dustin Schimek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinschimek/
Swapna Panda: https://twitter.com/swapnakpanda