SQL is a programming language known for its critical contributions to data and analytics. The language model is simple to learn and it only takes 1 - 6 weeks to master the basics depending on your schedule.

In this post, you will learn how to get started with SQL, especially if you are a beginner who wants to learn this programming language.

Yes, SQL can be regarded as a programming language but you can't use it to develop applications like Python.

Knowing the basics of SQL is relatively simple if you can sacrifice part of your time in learning it. There are free online resources that will help you get started. For instance, YouTube.

What Is SQL and Why Is It Important?

We explain in our last blog post what SQL is and the benefits it has on businesses and organizations. However, why is this language model so important to organizations?

SQL is a programming language used to communicate with databases. If you need to create, fetch, or delete data from a database, you will need SQL commands. These commands are called queries.

SQL is one of the most popular skills for analysts because they work with data and therefore need to know how to communicate with databases.

Learning SQL is super simple.

Even though it is the most common language, it isn't the only language needed to communicate with databases. SQL is typically used in relational databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Servers, etc.

An example of a non-relational database is MongoDB.

Is SQL Still Important In 2024?

The answer to that question is yes. SQL is important and remains one of the most widely used programming languages, particularly in the field of data analytics and database management.

Of course, SQL's popularity has grown over the past few years.

Data literacy is expected to be the most domain tech workplace skill by 2030. The need for data management and analysis is evolving as more professionals and organizations rely on data-driven decision-making.

The rise of AI-powered tools has made any language that supports updating and retrieving data very popular.

Should You Learn SQL?

Stumbling here means you are determined to learn this language model, and if you are interested in data, analytics, or backend programming, learning SQL should be your number one goal.

Even if your goals are not related to data, SQL can still be a valuable skill to learn.

Here's a list of benefits learning SQL might bring:

Learn in-demand skills: SQL is used by large and mid-size organizations in the finance, healthcare, retail, and technology industries. So there are many job opportunities for those who learn the skill.

Become better at analyzing data: If you work with data, SQL can help you extract valuable insights and information from large datasets, allowing you to quickly and efficiently query and manipulate data.

Improve your productivity: SQL is a valuable skill that can help you manage and organize data. By learning the skill, you can automate repetitive tasks and streamline your workflow, which can save time and increase productivity.

Learn transferable skills: SQL is not limited to any particular industry or organization. Once you have learned the skill you can apply it to a wide range of tasks and projects.

Open up career opportunities: SQL is often a prerequisite for roles in data analysis, data science, and data engineering. Therefore learning it can help you take your career to another level.

Different Ways To Learn SQL

There are different ways to learn SQL and each one has its place depending on your goals, learning style, time availability, and most importantly, budget.

Self-learning through online resources and courses: There are many online courses available to learn SQL. These resources range from free YouTube videos to paid online courses from certified platforms and institutions like Coursera, Udemy, and Codecademy. Self-learning is a flexible option for those who prefer to learn on their schedule and budget.

Bootcamps and intensive training programs: Bootcamps and extensive training courses are designed to provide hands-on learning in a condensed environment. These courses are typically shorter than traditional college courses and aim to teach practical skills that can be immediately applied to real-world projects.

Specialized SQL certifications: If you are determined to accelerate your career in data-driven areas, SQL certification can be a valuable credential to have. These certifications are provided by leading organizations like Microsoft, Google, Oracle, etc.Certification validates your skills and expertise which can increase your chances of getting hired.

Traditional classroom-based learning: If you want a structural learning environment and have the time and resources traditional classroom-based learning might be a resounding option. Many universities offer SQL as part of their core computer science or business programs. This provides a more hands-on experience, allowing you to ask questions and get valuable feedback.

Getting Started with SQL - For Beginners

Here's a simple approach to learning SQL, each person is different, with varying programming skills, levels, and objectives.

By following these steps, you should be able to begin your journey in learning SQL through various proportional perspectives.

Understand the basics: Before diving into the complex queries, you will need to understand the basic terms in SQL, these include tables, columns, rows, and relationships between tables.

Choose a database: familiarize yourself with a relational database management system (RDBMS) and get equipped with it. Some of the popular ones include MySQL, PostgreSQL, Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, etc.

Practice with simple queries: It is better to practice with simple queries such as selecting data from a single table or filtering data based on certain criteria.

Venture into complex queries: As you acquire valuable experience, start by navigating into more complex queries such as joins or aggregating data.

Use resources: There are a wealth of resources available to help you learn SQL, these include online tutorials, books, and courses.

Continuous practicing: The key to mastering SQL is continuous practicing. By trying to work on real-world projects, you will be able to challenge your skills and improve them.

Frequently Asked Questions About SQL For Beginners

What are the prerequisites for learning SQL? Do I need a coding experience?

You don't necessarily need coding experience to learn and master SQL. However, it is helpful to have some basic knowledge of data and how it is organized. Getting to familiarize yourself with spreadsheets or databases will also be beneficial.

In addition, try and understand the basics of algebraic concepts and logic, as SQL typically involves working with data sets and manipulating them through queries.

What are some real-world applications of SQL? Which industry requires this skill?

SQL is used in many industries including finance, healthcare, retail, and technology. It is used for tasks such as data analysis, reporting, and management. Various organizations both large and mid-size rely heavily on SQL to store and manage data.

Examples of real-world applications of SQL include customer management, inventory, and fraud detection.

How long does it take to learn SQL as a beginner? And how much time is needed to practice it and become perfect?

In some instances, it is better to set realistic goals for yourself and focus on continuous learning and improvement rather than trying to master SQL in a specific time frame. However, the amount of time it will take a beginner varies and depends on the individual level they wish to accomplish.

Learning the basics of SQL can take anywhere from a few days to a week. Becoming an expert can take several months of consistency.

It is better to keep learning and practicing while applying what you learn in real-world applications to solidify your understanding of the programming language.

What is RDBMS?

RDBMS stands for relational database management system. It is a type of database system that stores and manages data in tables with relationships between them. RDBMS uses SQL to store, manage, and manipulate data.

What are some popular RDBMS?

Some of the popular RDBMS include MySQL, Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and PostgreSQL. The choice depends on your project requirements, budget, and level of expertise. For instance, MySQL is a popular choice for web development projects, while Oracle is commonly used in enterprise-level applications.

SQL database systems ranked by DB-Engines based on their differences and variables.

Their main deferences include:

Cost: Oracle and Microsoft SQL servers are commercial products that require a license. On the other hand, MySQL and PostgreSQL are open-source software which means they are free to use.

Features: Every RDBMS has its own sets of features and capabilities that can make it more suitable for certain use cases.

Popularity: While all four are widely used, some are popular in certain industries or among certain jobs.

Choosing the one to learn first depends on your specific goals and objectives. As a beginner who wants to learn SQL and to get some hands-on experience, MySQL or PostgreSQL might be a perfect start since they are both free and easy to set up.