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SQL in 10 Minutes, Sams Teach Yourself
Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 10 Minutes, Fourth Edition New full-color code examples help you see how SQL statements are structured
Whether you're an application developer, database administrator, web application designer, mobile app developer, or Microsoft Office users, a good working knowledge of SQL is an important part of interacting with databases. And Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 10 Minutes offers the straightforward, practical answers you need to help you do your job.
Expert trainer and popular author Ben Forta teaches you just the parts of SQL you need to know–starting with simple data retrieval and quickly going on to more complex topics including the use of joins, subqueries, stored procedures, cursors, triggers, and table constraints.
You'll learn methodically, systematically, and simply–in 22 short, quick lessons that will each take only 10 minutes or less to complete.
With the Fourth Edition of this worldwide bestseller, the book has been thoroughly updated, expanded, and improved. Lessons now cover the latest versions of IBM DB2, Microsoft Access, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, PostgreSQL, SQLite, MariaDB, and Apache Open Office Base. And new full-color SQL code listings help the beginner clearly see the elements and structure of the language.
10 minutes is all you need to learn how to...
Table of Contents
1 Understanding SQL
2 Retrieving Data
3 Sorting Retrieved Data
4 Filtering Data
5 Advanced Data Filtering
6 Using Wildcard Filtering
7 Creating Calculated Fields
8 Using Data Manipulation Functions
9 Summarizing Data
10 Grouping Data
11 Working with Subqueries
12 Joining Tables
13 Creating Advanced Joins
14 Combining Queries
15 Inserting Data
16 Updating and Deleting Data
17 Creating and Manipulating Tables
18 Using Views
19 Working with Stored Procedures
20 Managing Transaction Processing
21 Using Cursors
22 Understanding Advanced SQL Features
Appendix Sample Table Scripts
Appendix Working in Popular Applications
Appendix C : SQL Statement Syntax
App
Whether you're an application developer, database administrator, web application designer, mobile app developer, or Microsoft Office users, a good working knowledge of SQL is an important part of interacting with databases. And Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 10 Minutes offers the straightforward, practical answers you need to help you do your job.
Expert trainer and popular author Ben Forta teaches you just the parts of SQL you need to know–starting with simple data retrieval and quickly going on to more complex topics including the use of joins, subqueries, stored procedures, cursors, triggers, and table constraints.
You'll learn methodically, systematically, and simply–in 22 short, quick lessons that will each take only 10 minutes or less to complete.
With the Fourth Edition of this worldwide bestseller, the book has been thoroughly updated, expanded, and improved. Lessons now cover the latest versions of IBM DB2, Microsoft Access, Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, PostgreSQL, SQLite, MariaDB, and Apache Open Office Base. And new full-color SQL code listings help the beginner clearly see the elements and structure of the language.
10 minutes is all you need to learn how to...
Table of Contents
1 Understanding SQL
2 Retrieving Data
3 Sorting Retrieved Data
4 Filtering Data
5 Advanced Data Filtering
6 Using Wildcard Filtering
7 Creating Calculated Fields
8 Using Data Manipulation Functions
9 Summarizing Data
10 Grouping Data
11 Working with Subqueries
12 Joining Tables
13 Creating Advanced Joins
14 Combining Queries
15 Inserting Data
16 Updating and Deleting Data
17 Creating and Manipulating Tables
18 Using Views
19 Working with Stored Procedures
20 Managing Transaction Processing
21 Using Cursors
22 Understanding Advanced SQL Features
Appendix Sample Table Scripts
Appendix Working in Popular Applications
Appendix C : SQL Statement Syntax
App
288 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1999
431 people are currently reading
879 people want to read
About the author
Ben Forta
77books5followersBen Forta is an author and Senior Technical Evangelist for Adobe Systems, particularly ColdFusion and Flex, and the owner of EmTek Systems. He previously worked in a similar capacity for Macromedia and Allaire Corporation, the two previous owners of ColdFusion.
In addition to writing numerous technical books on ColdFusion, SQL, and Regular Expressions, Forta co-authored Adobe's official ColdFusion training materials and certification tests and lectures on application development around the world. Many of his books have been translated into over a dozen languages worldwide.
Before working for Allaire, he founded the website Car.com, which was later purchased by Auto-By-Tel. Born in London, England, Forta lives in Oak Park, Michigan with his wife and their children.
- from Wikipedia
In addition to writing numerous technical books on ColdFusion, SQL, and Regular Expressions, Forta co-authored Adobe's official ColdFusion training materials and certification tests and lectures on application development around the world. Many of his books have been translated into over a dozen languages worldwide.
Before working for Allaire, he founded the website Car.com, which was later purchased by Auto-By-Tel. Born in London, England, Forta lives in Oak Park, Michigan with his wife and their children.
- from Wikipedia
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 14, 2020
A very clear book to learn SQL from scratch. This book has been revised multiple times over the years, and as a result, the queries given are up to date and works with the latest RDBMS software. Also, the books attempts to cover almost all well-known RDBMS software while highlighting key similarities. I don't see how any book can get better than this to help a beginner to learn SQL.
October 24, 2019
Awesome book. Every developer should read it and apply rules mentoined in it.
June 6, 2013
SELECT title
FROM My Books Read
WHERE title LIKE %SQL%
WHERE rating = '***'
Yes, I know the above script would not actually work.
This is a useful book, particularly as a quick reference for SQL. If you need something to keep handy for checking terms and query structure the 10 Minute guide would serve you well. Much easier than trying to look something up in one of the many larger more technical books on SQL.
FROM My Books Read
WHERE title LIKE %SQL%
WHERE rating = '***'
Yes, I know the above script would not actually work.
This is a useful book, particularly as a quick reference for SQL. If you need something to keep handy for checking terms and query structure the 10 Minute guide would serve you well. Much easier than trying to look something up in one of the many larger more technical books on SQL.
March 11, 2021
- ты чего валяешься на полу и плачешь?
- это по работе
- это по работе
January 11, 2018
Every 10 rows of this book I was sent to my "DBMS documentation".
It's not only redunant but also very annoying. Hey Ben, you told me once and I got you, thanks.
Anyway that book is not that bad but again - what I missed sometimes is the list of DBMS that do support (or not) feature you talking about.
Instead of reminding me to check my DBMS specs you could write something like "Do not use Oracle if you want that stuff to be supported".
And thus the reader of your book could have at least some idea about what all of existing DBMS for and why and when prefer one to another.
I think this is good to know when living real life.
It's not only redunant but also very annoying. Hey Ben, you told me once and I got you, thanks.
Anyway that book is not that bad but again - what I missed sometimes is the list of DBMS that do support (or not) feature you talking about.
Instead of reminding me to check my DBMS specs you could write something like "Do not use Oracle if you want that stuff to be supported".
And thus the reader of your book could have at least some idea about what all of existing DBMS for and why and when prefer one to another.
I think this is good to know when living real life.
April 25, 2019
My boss said he used to buy extra copies of this book to have on hand to hand out to people.
It is indeed a super worthwhile reference.
It's the first SQL book I've read, and it did a good job of being a general SQL overview, while also taking the time to point out differences between dialects. It gave me an idea of what an actual hassle it would be to migrate from one flavor to another.
It is indeed a super worthwhile reference.
It's the first SQL book I've read, and it did a good job of being a general SQL overview, while also taking the time to point out differences between dialects. It gave me an idea of what an actual hassle it would be to migrate from one flavor to another.
April 9, 2018
Great book for refresher and intermediate level SQL users. Note this is not the same as beginner database users. Don't expect to have never opened Access or Oracle and be spoon fed from this is a table. It also wont do much beyond point you to the files and basic how to open them because really if you are writing SQL you probably already know this stuff or have picked a DBMS.
For what it is intended to be it strikes a nice balance of basics and meaningful depth. It also did a pretty bang up job of explaining when different software is going to be different -not always how it will be different, but big red arrows of pay attention your software may be different areas. One exception is that Access doesn't like comments no matter how you start them and it seems to not know this. It is very good otherwise and pointing out when Access doesn't support something. Cant speak to how well it walks that line for other DBMS but for Access it was spot on.
There are a few typos but nothing in the code that I noticed.
Some dislike the constant callout of check your software rules, but if using as intended in 10 minute lessons it fits well to remember that is the goal. SQL is after all a kind of strange language - compact and meant to be used across different systems that allows embellishments by said systems. It does well to remember that it's not as simple as Java switch only on integers but VBA case does all datatypes to do similar function. It really can be the same language with totally different words and syntax required in the same language.
Highly recommend.
For what it is intended to be it strikes a nice balance of basics and meaningful depth. It also did a pretty bang up job of explaining when different software is going to be different -not always how it will be different, but big red arrows of pay attention your software may be different areas. One exception is that Access doesn't like comments no matter how you start them and it seems to not know this. It is very good otherwise and pointing out when Access doesn't support something. Cant speak to how well it walks that line for other DBMS but for Access it was spot on.
There are a few typos but nothing in the code that I noticed.
Some dislike the constant callout of check your software rules, but if using as intended in 10 minute lessons it fits well to remember that is the goal. SQL is after all a kind of strange language - compact and meant to be used across different systems that allows embellishments by said systems. It does well to remember that it's not as simple as Java switch only on integers but VBA case does all datatypes to do similar function. It really can be the same language with totally different words and syntax required in the same language.
Highly recommend.
December 17, 2017
*WARNING* The title implies this is an SQL for the complete beginner. It Certainly is not!
The book looks beautiful simplistic and the tone and language used is fairly easy to understand, it gets the core concepts across quite well and isn't overly busy.
However, all these positives are completely ruined by the fact I have no idea how to set up the template files and thus actually do any of the exercises.
A PDF file with setup instructions is included on the website, but it makes little to no sense and may even be incomplete.
1. Start database
2. Login to web homepage, address is usually (there is a link created
but it frequently does not work)
3. Create a name and workspace (they can be the same)
4. You’ll be able to login to your workspace
5. Click on SQL Workshop
6.
7. You can use the SQL Commands option to enter and test SQL commands
8. Copy create text, you may need to copy each CREATE TABLE and ALTER table individually, and
then hit RUN. Or paste it all but hightlight one statement at a time.
9. Same for populate
10. Try it with SELECT * FROM Customers;
As you can see step 6. is not included.
I downloaded Oracle Express because my computer wouldn't install Microsoft SQL Server and other DBMS. I think its fair to ask for better more detailed set up instructions for the novices who buy this book.
It's akin to having a book that teaches you how to drive without telling you how to turn the ignition on.
The book looks beautiful simplistic and the tone and language used is fairly easy to understand, it gets the core concepts across quite well and isn't overly busy.
However, all these positives are completely ruined by the fact I have no idea how to set up the template files and thus actually do any of the exercises.
A PDF file with setup instructions is included on the website, but it makes little to no sense and may even be incomplete.
1. Start database
2. Login to web homepage, address is usually (there is a link created
but it frequently does not work)
3. Create a name and workspace (they can be the same)
4. You’ll be able to login to your workspace
5. Click on SQL Workshop
6.
7. You can use the SQL Commands option to enter and test SQL commands
8. Copy create text, you may need to copy each CREATE TABLE and ALTER table individually, and
then hit RUN. Or paste it all but hightlight one statement at a time.
9. Same for populate
10. Try it with SELECT * FROM Customers;
As you can see step 6. is not included.
I downloaded Oracle Express because my computer wouldn't install Microsoft SQL Server and other DBMS. I think its fair to ask for better more detailed set up instructions for the novices who buy this book.
It's akin to having a book that teaches you how to drive without telling you how to turn the ignition on.
Read
August 3, 2023Short and very clear explanations of SQL
Ben Forta's honesty shines through in his books, including "Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 10 Minutes." He makes it crystal clear in the introduction that the book targets SQL newcomers who desire a quick grasp of SQL's essentials to maximize its potential. It's important to note that the book does not delve into every minute detail of SQL.
Throughout 22 chapters, Forta expertly imparts the basics of SQL, which should be more than sufficient for handling about 80% or more of common SQL requirements. For more complex SQL needs, such as those encountered by system architects and administrators, this book may not be the right fit.
An essential tip for readers is to download the sample databases and errata from the author's website for a more enriched learning experience.
In conclusion, "Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 10 Minutes" stands as one of the finest introductions to SQL available. Forta's clarity and direct approach make it an excellent resource for SQL beginners looking to swiftly grasp the fundamentals.
Ben Forta's honesty shines through in his books, including "Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 10 Minutes." He makes it crystal clear in the introduction that the book targets SQL newcomers who desire a quick grasp of SQL's essentials to maximize its potential. It's important to note that the book does not delve into every minute detail of SQL.
Throughout 22 chapters, Forta expertly imparts the basics of SQL, which should be more than sufficient for handling about 80% or more of common SQL requirements. For more complex SQL needs, such as those encountered by system architects and administrators, this book may not be the right fit.
An essential tip for readers is to download the sample databases and errata from the author's website for a more enriched learning experience.
In conclusion, "Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 10 Minutes" stands as one of the finest introductions to SQL available. Forta's clarity and direct approach make it an excellent resource for SQL beginners looking to swiftly grasp the fundamentals.
December 18, 2017
Recommended for ALL SQL beginners and a good mini/quick reference for those more advanced or intermediate or those that don't use SQL too much. I tell people this is THE book to read if/when they want to get into SQL, and all they need to read is the first 50-ish pages to know MOST of SQL and its a relatively small book overall that could fit in a pocket. This helps people as there are thousands of SQL books that are phonebook size and are intimidating when people just want to know something like "SELECT * FROM companyData" and then extrapolate into some more advanced and challenging scenarios after understanding those basics. This is the book to help people do that, to help people start, to help them learn and also be a nice quick-reference with 1 page for a "how do I do XXXX again?"
February 10, 2019
Let me tell you about Pandas DataFrames. DataFrames are wonderful pythonic objects that support clever programming and fast execution via numpy. DataFrames can be masked, joined, manipulated, and plotted however you want. DataFrames rock, and Python is fun.
Unfortunately, real businesses run on SQL. Now, my workflow as a data scientist would be to load all my data into memory and work on in Pandas, and if I don't have enough memory, start a bigger instance on AWS. But sometimes you have to use a 70s vintage DBMS, and that means knowing SQL.
Forta's book is a solid introduction to SQL concepts, and how to do selects, filters, and joins. Your exact database will vary, but I find this book to be clear written, a good place to start, and a worthwhile addition to your knowledge base.
Unfortunately, real businesses run on SQL. Now, my workflow as a data scientist would be to load all my data into memory and work on in Pandas, and if I don't have enough memory, start a bigger instance on AWS. But sometimes you have to use a 70s vintage DBMS, and that means knowing SQL.
Forta's book is a solid introduction to SQL concepts, and how to do selects, filters, and joins. Your exact database will vary, but I find this book to be clear written, a good place to start, and a worthwhile addition to your knowledge base.
December 7, 2017
Trust me, you will want this book to JOIN your others.
I bought this work as I was finishing my class to get a better understanding of SQL.
Mission Accomplished! It guides you through different aspects of SQL, how to use it, and specific cflauses etc.
I've had a difficult semester & I wish i'd picked it up earlier as it would have prepared me to work on Microsoft Access for class. That said, I LOVE that it was one of very few books that when discussing Access, doesn't simply assume you'll use the query wizard as my professor required us to use the SQL View to make queries.
SELECT Sams Teach Yourself SQLTM in 10 Minutes
FROM Sams Teach Yourself
WHERE Learning =*
May 6, 2023
It Only Takes 10
SQL can be daunting, but Forta's book makes learning it a breeze!
The book is perfect for beginners or advanced users looking to brush up on their teaching skills.
As an advanced user myself, I found it a good book to learn how to better teach SQL to others.
The bite-sized chapters make learning easy, and Forta's writing style is clear and concise.
Whether you're learning SQL for work or just for fun, this book is a must-read.
I highly recommend it to anyone looking to master SQL.
4.4/5
SQL can be daunting, but Forta's book makes learning it a breeze!
The book is perfect for beginners or advanced users looking to brush up on their teaching skills.
As an advanced user myself, I found it a good book to learn how to better teach SQL to others.
The bite-sized chapters make learning easy, and Forta's writing style is clear and concise.
Whether you're learning SQL for work or just for fun, this book is a must-read.
I highly recommend it to anyone looking to master SQL.
4.4/5
August 8, 2018
The author clearly states that this book won't teach you Normalisation, the Entity relationships and Forms. But this is a well written book for someone who wants to delve into learning Sql query. One thing I liked about this book is that before starting a new concept, the author makes the readers realise why that concept is important. If you are new to SQL or if it scares you start reading this book!
July 29, 2020
Very clear and readable intro to SQL, including SELECT and data manipulation statements. Despite being introductory, it has excellent appendices which make the book worth keeping as a reference. It also does a good job of pointing out differences in SQL syntax on a variety of popular database software. Finally, the book's small size and glossy clay-coated pages with subtle but effective use of color make flipping through it easy on the hands and eyes.
August 2, 2023
A practical guide for SQL beginners! SQL: Easy SQL Programming & For Beginners offers step-by-step learning, clear language, and hands-on exercises. Perfect for novices, it covers syntax, data manipulation, and more complex topics like joins. While real-world scenarios would enhance it further, this book is a valuable resource for anyone starting their SQL journey.
October 24, 2020
This book was meant and is meant to be read as just a quick reference per chapter/topic. This will NOT teach you advanced techniques and doesn't do a great teaching you the differences between Transact SQL (T-SQL), PL/SQL, etc. Albeit, the differences are minor if you understand the language to begin with but somebody learning won't want this book as this is more of a refresher.
November 14, 2024
This is a great refresher of core SQL concepts and syntax of queries. Highly recommend!
The book is well structured from beginning to end with each chapter leading to the next and the concepts are clearly explained with useful examples.
The name of the book is clearly a typo though -- It should be "SQL in 10 minutes a day" and not " SQL in 10 minutes" :D
The book is well structured from beginning to end with each chapter leading to the next and the concepts are clearly explained with useful examples.
The name of the book is clearly a typo though -- It should be "SQL in 10 minutes a day" and not " SQL in 10 minutes" :D
July 10, 2017
A very good place to start with learning SQL... But definitely only the very beginning of the topic, and not enough information here to do more than the most basic work. I'll need a more expansive course to really make progress.
November 25, 2018
Good intro to SQL. Easier to follow than the textbook I have to read for class. I have class assignments, so I did not do any of the exercises in the book. I feel this book is a great quick reference guide. Highly recommend it.
May 29, 2020
Great approach. But way too superficially. So it is pretty difficult to use it in real life based on this book only. I think too less information about joins, too less information about unions and how exactly to use them.
May 5, 2017
Good book to refresh your knowledge
May 14, 2017
The best SQL introduction in my opinion. Well chosen examples, structured in small self contained chapters.
June 22, 2017
Great refresher or first time intro
September 18, 2017
Неплохое пособие по SQL для начинающих.
January 11, 2018
my first sql book
April 9, 2018
Very nice book if you want to refresh your knowledge or you are starting from the scratch.
October 6, 2018
Clear and practical book. I learned a lot from the examples given.
September 6, 2018
If you new to SQL or just want to refresh existing knowledge -- pick this book.
April 19, 2019
While I really don't like books that give outrageous claims on the cover, this book is straight to the point. The color coding s very clear, and you can quickly find what you need for reference.
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