SQL – Explained In 200 Words

SQL (Structured Query Language) is a standard language for managing relational databases. It enables users to interact with databases by querying, updating, and managing data. Initially developed by IBM in the 1970s as “SEQUEL” (Structured English Query Language), SQL became an ANSI/ISO standard in the 1980s, leading to its widespread adoption across various database management systems.

For example, consider a simple SQL query to retrieve all employees from a table named “employees” who work in the “HR” department:


SELECT * FROM employees WHERE department = ‘HR’;


This query selects all columns (`*`) from the “employees” table where the “department” column is equal to ‘HR’. The result is a list of employees who work in the HR department.

SQL commands are categorized into querying, manipulation, definition, and control. Querying involves retrieving specific data from databases using commands like SELECT, WHERE, and ORDER BY. Data manipulation commands like INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE allow users to add, modify, or remove data from databases. Data definition commands like CREATE TABLE and ALTER TABLE define and modify the structure of tables within databases.

SQL’s versatility and standardization make it compatible with many database management systems, including MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, Oracle, and Microsoft SQL Server. Its simplicity and wide adoption have made it an essential skill for developers, data analysts, and database administrators across various industries.