SQL Tutorial for Beginners

In this step-by-step tutorial, learn how you can write your own SQL queries. You don't need any prior knowledge and we're going to use all free tools. By the end of this video, you'll know how to retrieve data from databases. At the end, I'll show you a neat trick to write some of the most complex queries with very little effort.

SQL stands for structured query language. It's a language that you can use to talk to your database. You can also use it to retrieve, filter, sort, combine, add, update, and delete data in a database. It's basically a language you can use to interact with the database. The great thing is that anyone can learn how to write SQL queries. You definitely don't need a degree in computer science. And once you know it, you'll have another superpower that you can use at work.

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⌚ Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:37 Why learn SQL?
01:49 What is SQL?
02:25 What is a database?
03:09 Relational database management systems
04:11 Install Microsoft SQL Server
06:51 Install SQL Server Management Studio
07:26 Connect to server
08:13 Object Explorer
09:26 Restore sample database
10:42 Tables
14:33 Primary keys
15:57 Database diagrams
17:57 Data types
18:30 Select
24:50 Filtering with where
32:02 Inner join & outer join
38:21 Order by
39:01 Functions including getdate, sum, count
41:02 Group by
41:20 Bonus: Query designer
44:09 Wrap up

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#stratvert #sql

[AniseedBalls]

Hi Kevin. I'm a retired software architect with lots of experience of SQL, and only watched the video to see what you were presenting to newbies. I wanted to let you know that it's an excellent introduction to something many might be hesitant about. Great job!

[shayanzaidi]

This is 2 of my university courses summarized in a 45 minute video. So impressive and so helpful! Thanks, Kevin

[udarexd]

To those who can not locate the KCC file when trying to add it in the Database. Copy paste or Move the File to the Backup folder which is located in Microsoft SQL server ---> MSSQL16.MSSQLSERVER ---> MSSQL. These files are located where you originally downloaded the whole software probably in Local disk C ---> Program Files. This will then automatically show the KCC file when you try to select it to add it in the Database like Kevin told in the video. Hope this helps.

[stormysurge]

16:08 If you're getting an error like I did, do the following:

1) Right click KCC and select properties
2) Select Files
3) On the row of "Owner:" select the "..." at the end
4) Browse -> check [sa] -> OK

Now you should be good!

[jeffmoden]

I'm an old, mostly self taught DBA/Database-Developer that started working with SQL Server in 1998. I'm also a former Navy Instructor that wrote and taught a 200 hour course on microprocessors and how to program them way back in 1977 and have been teaching a whole lot of different things, including a lot of things about SQL Server and T-SQL. With that, I'll also say that I'm not easily impressed. And, with that being said....

You probably hear this all the time but now I have to say it. This is an absolutely brilliant introduction to SQL and SSMS and the order of revelation is perfect. Having put together presentations on the subject, I also have a deep understanding of, even with the best of tools, how long it takes to put to craft, crop, and publish a video of such incredible content.

Very, VERY well done, good Sir.

[mrericwonghk]

For those who are following along and could not open the database diagram: Right-click "KCC" in the Object Explorer, then select "Properties". Under "Select a page", select "Files". Enter "sa" in the owner field and click "OK". The problem should be solved!

I made a typo in my comment a year ago, where "sa" was "as" due to autocorrect. However, that comment has since helped a lot of you with opening the diagram. YouTube wouldn't let me edit my comment cause it returned error. Kevin, if you see this feel free to re-pin this comment. Thanks!

[lionelblak]

You have a gift for making complex subjects look very simple. As a software specialist, I’m sure this video took quite a few hours to put together. You started with baby steps but by the end, there was some quite advanced material being covered and I learned a few things that I didn’t previously know. Something for everybody - thank-you!

[blackgotham]

Out of all the tutorials available, this one is the most straightforward and user-friendly. Kevin, I appreciate you for generously sharing your expertise.

[anthonygikuri]

Kelvin, I never thought one day I'd ever think about SQL. I always knew it's for the IT guys!!! Everyone can learn it? I can only Believe this because I trust you!!! You present complex matters into a plan language. Thanks

[wildbouquet]

I’m a stay at home mom looking to learn some new skills and enter the work place. It’s been incredibly daunting and all the other SQL lessons I’ve taken skim over important information and don’t describe things clearly. This was SOOO helpful!!! Thank you so much!

[lennykogginsofficial]

Learning this for a job interview this week, thank you! It's a SQL heavy job, but I didn't put anthing SQL related on my resume and they still called me back so knowing the basics to mention in the interview will be a big help!

[lesliesauzek]

Kevin, THANK YOU!!! I have been trying for the last couple of months to learn SQL. I understand putting in the steps, but I need the "why" . Tonight you made it click. You have no idea how thrilled I am. Thank you so so much for your fantastic explanation. I wIsh I were paying you for a course instead of what I'm taking. You're very patient and explain it all so it makes sense.

[chantelruss]

Kevin, please, please, please make more SQL content? I work in the database but there is so much more to learn. I just love your approach when it comes to learning new skills and your videos are so easy to follow. My goal is to become certified by the end of this year. Thank you so much for this!

[hyeyoungmulvaney]

I watched this 4 times already and I am going to watch at least 10 more to memorize all the queries listed in this video! Thanks so much Kevin for the awesome video and can't wait to learn more about SQL in your next videos!

[Stephen_A.]

OMG, from my work place I thought SQL looked too difficult so I abandoned trying to use it to find certain data. I had no idea that there was a query wizard that is actually easier to use than MS Access. This changes everything. THANK YOU KEVIN ! And yes, SQL training would be great.

[Trying_trying]

I'm just starting a Data Science bootcamp in the UK, London and wanted to get some basic understanding of SQL as I will be studying it. This video is very simple whilst a good amount of knowledge and benefits in it. Genuinely appreciate it. Thanks

[superboyjamie]

Kevin, I LOVE writing SQL. I did it for 17 years and now I'm making videos using MS Access. I wouldn't do a beginner's video using SQL Server but you nailed it. Great job, cheers!

[acenkicks]

I literally became comfortable with knowing how I will be using SQL & I’ve only watched 30mins of it. Clear & precise instructions & explanations of shortcuts! Highly recommend this video to any beginner!

[anti-fame]

This tutoral is straight to the point. Everything was explained perfectly - not too short which becomes confusing and not too long which becomes boring - just perfect! Thanks!

[fluffkitteh]

I would love to see this become a series. I stumbled across your channel after being assigned a SQL project at work and it has been well over 10 years since I last used this program for data analysis. Thank you for such a great introductory video.