Advanced SQL Query Techniques
SQL (Structured Query Language) is a powerful tool for managing and querying relational
databases. Advanced SQL techniques help optimize performance and enable complex data
manipulations.
**1. Using Indexes Effectively**
Indexes speed up query execution by allowing the database engine to find rows faster.
- **Types of Indexes**: Clustered, Non-clustered, Composite, Unique, and Full-text.
- **Best Practices**: Use indexes on frequently searched columns but avoid over-indexing.
**2. Query Optimization Strategies**
Optimizing SQL queries improves database efficiency.
- Use **EXPLAIN ANALYZE** to inspect query execution plans.
- Prefer **JOINs** over subqueries where possible.
- Normalize data but avoid excessive joins that slow performance.
**3. Stored Procedures and Functions**
Stored procedures are precompiled SQL scripts that execute complex logic efficiently.
- Example:
```sql
CREATE PROCEDURE GetEmployeeDetails @EmpID INT
AS
BEGIN
SELECT * FROM Employees WHERE EmployeeID = @EmpID
END
```
**4. Common Table Expressions (CTEs)**
CTEs provide a way to structure queries for readability and reuse.
- Example:
```sql
WITH EmployeeCTE AS (SELECT EmployeeID, Name FROM Employees WHERE Department =
'IT')
SELECT * FROM EmployeeCTE;
```
**5. Window Functions for Analytical Queries**
Window functions help perform calculations across rows while preserving row-level details.
- Example:
```sql
SELECT EmployeeID, Salary, AVG(Salary) OVER (PARTITION BY Department) AS
AvgDeptSalary
FROM Employees;
```
By mastering these techniques, developers can write efficient, scalable SQL queries.