How to Dynamically Call a Table Valued Function from a String in T-SQL

Learn how to dynamically call a table valued function from a string in T-SQL and store the results effectively in SQL Server.
---
Disclaimer/Disclosure - Portions of this content were created using Generative AI tools, which may result in inaccuracies or misleading information in the video. Please keep this in mind before making any decisions or taking any actions based on the content. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to leave a comment. Thanks.
---
How to Dynamically Call a Table Valued Function from a String in T-SQL

In SQL Server, table valued functions (TVFs) are a powerful feature that allows you to return a set of rows from a function. These can be incredibly useful for modularizing and reusing your code. However, there might be cases where you need to dynamically call a TVF from a string in T-SQL and store the results. This article will guide you through the process to achieve this.

Why Would You Want to Call a TVF Dynamically?

There are several scenarios where dynamically calling a TVF can be useful:

Parameterized Queries: When the function name or parameters are determined at runtime.

Reusable Components: For creating more reusable and flexible database components.

Automated Scripts: For operations that require dynamic execution such as ETL processes or data migration.

Steps to Dynamically Call a TVF

To call a TVF dynamically from a string in T-SQL, you can use dynamic SQL via the sp_executesql stored procedure. This approach provides the flexibility needed for dynamic execution and captures the result set into a table.

Declare Variable to Store SQL String:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Compose the Dynamic SQL String:

Ensure you include your parameters in the string correctly.

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Prepare a Table to Store the Results:

Define a table structure matching the output of your TVF.

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Execute the Dynamic SQL and Store Results:

Use sp_executesql to run the dynamic SQL and insert the results into the table.

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Access Stored Results:

You can now query or manipulate the data in @Result table.

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Example

Below is a consolidated example which demonstrates dynamically calling a TVF and storing the results:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

Using dynamic SQL to call a table valued function from a string in T-SQL enables more flexibility and modularity in your SQL Server operations. By following the detailed steps and example provided, you can effectively integrate this approach into your SQL development practices.