Advanced Querying Techniques in SQL Server from Pluralsight

SQL Server’s data engine traditionally stores relational data but it can also be used to store data in non-relational schemas. You’ll learn about one example -- Entity, Attribute, Value (EAV).

SQL Server’s Transact-SQL language has the ability to transform relational data in a wide variety of ways. In this course, Advanced Querying Techniques in SQL Server, you’ll gain the ability to solve four important problems using SQL Server. First, you’ll learn how to navigate hierarchical data using recursive common table expressions (CTEs). Second, you’ll explore how to rotate tabular data while aggregating desired metrics using PIVOT. Next, you’ll discover how to transform cross tabulated data into relational data using UNPIVOT. Then, you’ll see how to use semantic data modeling and Entry, Attribute, and Value data structures when a purely relational model limits flexibility and attributes can change frequently. Finally, you'll learn how to sample SQL Server data for analysis and testing. When you’re finished with this course, you’ll have the skills and knowledge of advanced SQL Server querying techniques needed to quickly address the problems presented here.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Navigating Data Hierarchies Using Recursive Queries

Aggregating Data Using the PIVOT and UNPIVOT Clauses

Storing Data as Entities, Attributes, and Values (EAV)

Sampling Data in SQL Server

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Strengthens expertise for students that want to address complex problems through advanced SQL techniques

Navigating Data Hierarchies Using Recursive Queries is a skill in high demand across industries

Storing Data as Entities, Attributes, and Values (EAV) solves complexity in data models for students needing that skill

Teaches how to use advanced techniques in PIVOT and UNPIVOT for data aggregation and transformation

The course provides hands-on experience with sampling SQL Server data for analysis and testing

Might not suit students new to SQL seeking a comprehensive introduction to the platform

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Advanced Querying Techniques in SQL Server with these activities:

Review relational data concepts and SQL syntax

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Strengthen your foundational knowledge of relational data concepts and SQL syntax in preparation for the course.

Browse courses on Relational Data

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Review textbooks or online resources on relational data modeling.
Practice writing basic SQL queries to manipulate and retrieve data.

Review 'SQL Server Querying' by Itzik Ben-Gan

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Gain a deeper understanding of SQL Server querying by reviewing a comprehensive book on the topic.

View T-SQL Fundamentals (Developer Reference) on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'SQL Server Querying' by Itzik Ben-Gan.
Read through the book, focusing on the sections relevant to the course.
Take notes and highlight important concepts.
Complete the practice exercises and review the solutions.

Explore advanced SQL Server querying techniques using online tutorials

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Supplement your course learning by exploring additional resources and tutorials on advanced SQL Server querying techniques.

Browse courses on Database Querying

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Search for online tutorials on advanced SQL Server querying.
Select reputable sources and tutorials that align with the course content.
Follow the tutorials to learn new techniques and enhance your understanding.

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Use recursive CTEs for hierarchical data

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Develop your understanding of hierarchical data structures and recursive CTEs by completing practice drills.

Browse courses on Database Querying

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Review the concept of hierarchical data and recursive CTEs.
Create practice datasets with hierarchical data.
Write queries using recursive CTEs to navigate and extract data from the practice datasets.
Test your queries on real-world datasets to solidify your understanding.

Develop data visualizations to analyze PIVOT and UNPIVOT results

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Enhance your data analysis skills by creating visual representations of data transformed using PIVOT and UNPIVOT.

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Select appropriate data from a database.
Apply PIVOT or UNPIVOT transformations to the data.
Choose suitable data visualization techniques (e.g., charts, graphs).
Create data visualizations using a visualization tool.
Interpret and analyze the visualizations to draw meaningful insights.

Host a workshop on EAV data structures and modeling

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Deepen your understanding of EAV data structures and modeling by sharing your knowledge with others through a workshop.

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Prepare a presentation on EAV data structures and modeling.
Organize a workshop session with fellow learners or colleagues.
Deliver the presentation and facilitate discussions.
Answer questions and engage in discussions with participants.
Follow up with participants to provide additional support if needed.

Develop a data sampling strategy for a SQL Server database

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Apply your knowledge of data sampling techniques by creating a comprehensive sampling strategy for a real-world database.

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Identify the purpose and objectives of the data sampling.
Select appropriate data sampling techniques based on the requirements.
Implement the sampling strategy using SQL Server.
Validate the sampled data to ensure accuracy and representativeness.
Document the sampling strategy and its results.

Develop a database application using advanced SQL Server querying techniques

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Apply your skills by developing a database application that incorporates advanced SQL Server querying techniques.

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Identify a problem or need that can be addressed with a database application.
Design the database schema and data model.
Implement the database and populate it with data.
Develop the application logic using advanced SQL Server querying techniques.
Test and refine the application to ensure functionality and performance.

Career center

Learners who complete Advanced Querying Techniques in SQL Server will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator (DBA) is responsible for the installation, configuration, maintenance, and performance monitoring of database systems. They may also work with developers to design and implement database schema and to ensure that applications have efficient access to the data they need. This course is a good fit for DBAs who want to learn how to use advanced SQL Server querying techniques to manage and maintain their databases more effectively.

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Data Architect

A Data Architect designs and implements data architectures that meet the business needs of an organization. They may also develop and implement data governance policies and procedures to ensure that data is managed and used effectively. This course can help Data Architects develop the skills and knowledge they need to design and implement data architectures that are scalable, flexible, and secure.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Architect

Data Engineer

A Data Engineer designs and implements data pipelines to collect, clean, and transform raw data into actionable insights. They may also work with other stakeholders to develop and implement data governance policies and procedures to ensure that data is managed and used effectively. This course can help Data Engineers develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Business Intelligence Analyst

A Business Intelligence Analyst uses data to analyze business performance, identify trends and patterns, and make recommendations for improvement. They may also work with other stakeholders to develop and implement data-driven strategies and initiatives. This course can help Business Intelligence Analysts develop the skills and knowledge they need to access, analyze, and interpret data using advanced SQL Server querying techniques.

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Data Scientist

A Data Scientist uses data to build predictive models and machine learning algorithms that can be used to solve business problems. They may also develop and implement data pipelines to collect, clean, and transform raw data into actionable insights. This course can help Data Scientists develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data.

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Data Visualization Analyst

A Data Visualization Analyst creates visual representations of data to help stakeholders understand complex datasets and trends. They may also work with other stakeholders to develop and implement data visualization solutions. This course can help Data Visualization Analysts develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data in order to create effective data visualizations.

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Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. They may also work with other stakeholders to define requirements, develop test cases, and implement solutions. This course can help Software Engineers develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data for use in their software applications.

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Business Analyst

A Business Analyst works with stakeholders to identify business needs and develop solutions to meet those needs. They may also develop and implement business processes and procedures to ensure that business operations are efficient and effective. This course can help Business Analysts develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data to support their business analysis activities.

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Web Developer

A Web Developer designs and develops websites and web applications. They may also work with other stakeholders to define requirements, develop test cases, and implement solutions. This course can help Web Developers develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data for use in their web applications.

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Financial Analyst

A Financial Analyst evaluates the financial performance of companies and industries. They may also develop and implement financial models to forecast future performance and to make investment recommendations. This course can help Financial Analysts develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret financial data.

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Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst protects an organization's computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They may also develop and implement security policies and procedures to ensure that the organization's information assets are protected.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager plans, executes, and closes projects. They may also work with stakeholders to define project requirements, develop project plans, and manage project resources. This course can help Project Managers develop the skills and knowledge they need to use SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data to support their project management activities.

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Risk Analyst

A Risk Analyst identifies, assesses, and manages risks to an organization. They may also develop and implement risk management policies and procedures to ensure that the organization's risks are managed effectively. This course may be helpful for Risk Analysts who want to develop their skills in using SQL Server to access, analyze, and interpret data in order to identify, assess, and manage risks.

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Data Analyst

A Data Analyst uses pipelines to ingest, clean, and transform raw data into actionable insights. They may also build predictive models and dashboards to help business stakeholders understand complex datasets and trends. This course may be helpful for Data Analysts who want to develop their skills in using SQL Server to perform advanced data analysis.

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Compliance Analyst

A Compliance Analyst ensures that an organization's operations are in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards. They may also develop and implement compliance policies and procedures to ensure that the organization meets its compliance obligations.

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