SQL Foundations

Overview

Learn the fundamentals of SQL with Microsoft SQL Server in this introductory course. You'll learn to write basic and intermediate queries to extract and analyze data while understanding relational database concepts. Through hands-on exercises with SQL Server Management Studio, you'll practice filtering data with WHERE clauses, sorting results with ORDER BY, and transforming data with built-in functions. This course also introduces you to database schemas, tables, and views, providing a foundation for understanding data structure. Additionally, you'll explore how generative AI tools can assist with SQL query development, reflecting modern workplace practices. By completing this course, you'll build confidence writing T-SQL queries and be prepared for more advanced data manipulation techniques.

Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction to SQL and Course Overview

This module introduces you to SQL and outlines the entire course framework. You will understand the importance and applications of SQL in data management. You will become familiar with the course structure and available resources while gaining a basic understanding of SQL syntax and executing simple queries. This foundational module sets the stage for more advanced concepts in subsequent modules, ensuring you are well-prepared to delve deeper into SQL.

Module 2: Retrieve Data from a Database with SQL Queries

This module focuses on enhancing your data retrieval skills through SQL queries. You will master basic SQL syntax and query structures, enabling you to execute SELECT statements for data retrieval and apply filtering techniques using WHERE clauses. Additionally, you will learn to sort data effectively. Practical exercises, quizzes, and discussions will reinforce these skills, providing you with the groundwork to extract relevant data from databases efficiently.

Module 3: Data Transformations with Aliases and Filtering

In this module, you will delve into data transformation techniques using SQL functions. You will write and execute JOINs to combine data from multiple tables, utilizing aliases to enhance readability and clarity. You will combine filtering, transformations, and aliases to create more efficient queries, focusing on formatting and presenting results for improved data interpretation. Through hands-on activities and assessments, you will develop the capability to manipulate complex datasets effectively.

Module 4: Data Encapsulation and Exploring AI

The final module introduces advanced concepts in SQL, including views for encapsulating complex queries. You will learn to create, modify, and drop views to streamline and maintain efficient database structures. Additionally, the module explores the integration of Generative AI tools, like GitHub Copilot, to assist in writing and optimizing SQL queries. You will reflect on the benefits and limitations of AI in SQL query development, preparing you for a future where AI-driven tools play a significant role in database management. The module concludes with a review of key learnings and a preview of the next course, setting new learning goals.