How to Retrieve the SQL Query Behind a View in Azure SQL Database

Learn how to easily find the SQL query that created a view in Azure SQL. Follow our detailed guide for step-by-step instructions.
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How to Retrieve the SQL Query Behind a View in Azure SQL Database

Are you working with multiple views in your Azure SQL database and need to trace back the SQL queries that were used to create them? You’re not alone! Many users coming from a MySQL background often find themselves puzzled when they don’t find the familiar SHOW CREATE VIEW command in Azure SQL. But fear not! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the exact steps to retrieve the SQL definition of a view in Azure SQL.

Understanding Views in SQL

Before we dive into the solution, let's clarify what a view is. A view is essentially a virtual table consisting of a stored query that you can use in your SQL statements like a regular table. However, unlike tables, views do not store data physically. Instead, they derive their data from the tables upon which they are based.

Accessing SQL Definitions for Views

Retrieving Definitions for All Views

If you want to access the definitions of all views in your database at once, you can use the following SQL command:

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

Breaking Down the Command

definition: This column returns the SQL text of the view.

uses_ansi_nulls: Indicates whether the ANSI_NULLS option is set for the view.

uses_quoted_identifier: Shows whether the QUOTED_IDENTIFIER option is specified.

is_schema_bound: Specifies whether the view is bound to its schema (meaning you can't drop the underlying table or alter it without altering the view first).

Retrieving a Definition for a Specific View

If you’re looking for the SQL definition of a specific view, perhaps named VIEW_1, you can refine your query like this:

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

This command serves a similar purpose, but targets only the specified view you’re interested in.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to access view definitions in Azure SQL, it will be much easier to manage and understand your database structure. Happy querying!