Learning SQL. Where to get started?

Question

I want to start learning sql? Where should I get started from? I am looking specific answers for: Platform - Windows/ Linux RDBMS - MSSQL/ Oracle/ MySQL Books - that goes along with some real world case studies (not the boring author/books relationship) Online resources - tutorials/ real world projects

Answer 1

first learn about relational databases and relational theory in general (and set theory upon which it is based), then SQL will be much easier to comprehend. the classic book on databases by C J Date is hard to beat

Answer 2

SQL Fundamentals is the best SQL book I have read. It gives examples in both Oracle and MS Access and is geared toward the beginner.

Answer 3

Check this site: SQLZoo, its a very good interactive tutorial, really nice, you can learn by practicing your queries on the fly...

Answer 4

http://www.w3schools.com/sql/default.asp Their tutorials are a great start.

Answer 5

1) Get a base understanding of what a database is (Google, Wikipedia)

2) Learn what a RDBMS is (Relational Database Management System)

3) Learn what a 'normal form' is.

4) Read an easy to read 'primer' book. I suggest this book:

MySQL Crash course by Ben Forta, Sams publishing ISBN: 0-672-32712-0

5) Download + Install MySQL and read through the documentation. It comes with a help file that should help you out. Use whatever book you have to go through the base examples and learn. Ideally whatever book you have will walk you through the concepts with very clear and explicit examples.

Answer 6

For Microsoft SQL Server 2005,

• You can download SQL Server 2005 Express Edition version for free.

• Get an understanding of database schemas with these SQL Server Database schemas

• Getting started with SQL Basics

• Set yourself up a Bloglines account and subscribe to SQL Server feeds that you come across that interest you. I can add some suggestions to the comments if you want to get started.

• If you would like to sink your teeth into how SQL Server is utilised in collaboration with different types of application then the Samples and Starter Kits look like they would be a good starting point. Bear in mind that you will also need one of the free Visual Studio IDEs for each sample application too. Details are on the page.

Answer 7

Books by Joe Celko - especially thinking in sets

Answer 8

There are a few threads like this one on StackOverflow.