Gives you a sound understanding of the Structured Query Language so you can write your own SQL scripts to insert, extract and manipulate data
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SQL (Structured Query Language) is THE standard language used world-wide for database communication on all popular database software. It allows the storage and manipulation of data both on Windows platforms and on Unix-based platforms, such as Linux.
SQL in easy steps, 4th edition begins by explaining how to download and install the free MySQL database server on both Windows and Linux platforms. This allows you to establish an environment in which to develop and administer your own databases. This book makes no assumption that you will have previous knowledge of any programming or scripting language so it’s ideal for the newcomer to SQL. Each chapter builds your knowledge of executing database queries. The book contains exciting chapters on how to selectively extract data from within one, or more, databases and there are complete examples that illustrate each aspect of SQL. By the end of this book you will have gained a sound understanding of the Structured Query Language and be able to write your own SQL scripts to insert, extract, and manipulate data.
Free, downloadable source code is available from our website so you can check the code against your own work, and get started straight away!
SQL in easy steps, 4th edition has an easy-to-follow style that will appeal to anyone who wants to begin using databases. It is suitable for those with little or no experience of SQL. This book will appeal to all who need a fundamental understanding of database administration with SQL:
- Web developers wanting to add database interaction to their web sites
- Programmers wanting to add SQL to their skills set
- Hobbyists who want to begin creating SQL scripts for upload to their own ISP
- Students or those seeking a career in computing.

About the author
Mike McGrath now lives in South-east Europe, on the sun-kissed shores of the Aegean Sea. Mike gained his extensive knowledge of computer languages while working as a developer contracting to companies around the world. His interests include coins of ancient Greece, dining-out with friends, and the ongoing evolution of the world wide web.
Freely download the original source code for checking against your own work from our Downloads page
Pages 12-19 updated – installation processes revised November 2024 (these updates are included in the ebook edition available to purchase from 20 Nov 2024, and the In Easy Steps Library edition)