SQL: A Practical Introduction for Querying Databases from Coursera

Much of the world's data lives in databases. SQL (or Structured Query Language) is a powerful programming language that is used for communicating with and manipulating data in databases. A working knowledge of databases and SQL is a must for anyone who wants to start a career in Data Engineering, Data Warehousing, Data Analytics, Data Science or Business Intelligence. The purpose of this course is to help you learn and apply foundational and intermediate knowledge of the SQL language, and become familiar with many relational database (RDBMS) concepts along the way.

You will start with performing basic Create, Read, Update and Delete (CRUD) operations using CREATE, SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE and DELETE statements. You will then learn to filter, order, sort, and aggregate data. You will work with functions, perform sub-selects and nested queries, as well as JOIN data in multiple tables. You will also work with VIEWS, transactions and create stored procedures.

The emphasis in this course is on hands-on, practical learning. As such, you will work with real database systems, use real tools, and real-world datasets. You will create a database instance in the cloud. Through a series of hands-on labs, you will practice building and running SQL queries. At the end of the course you will apply and demonstrate your skills with a final project.

The SQL skills you learn in this course will be applicable to a variety of RDBMSes such as MySQL, PostgreSQL, IBM Db2, Oracle, SQL Server and others.

No prior knowledge of databases, SQL or programming is required, however some basic data literacy is beneficial.

What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started with SQL

In this module, you will be introduced to databases. You will create a database instance on the cloud. You will learn some of the basic SQL statements. You will also write and practice basic SQL hands-on on a live database.

Introduction to Relational Databases and Tables

In this module, you will explore the fundamental concepts behind databases, tables, and the relationships between them. You will then create an instance of a database, discover SQL statements that allow you to create and manipulate tables, and then practice them on your own live database.

Intermediate SQL

In this module, you will learn how to use string patterns and ranges to search data and how to sort and group data in result sets. You will also practice composing nested queries and execute select statements to access data from multiple tables.

Working with real-world data sets, Final Project & Exam

In this assignment, you will be working with multiple real world datasets for the city of Chicago. You will be asked questions that will help you understand the data just as you would in the real wold. You will be assessed on the correctness of your SQL queries and results.

Advanced SQL (Honors)

This module covers some advanced SQL techniques that will be useful for Data Engineers. If you are following the Data Engineering track, you must complete this module. Completion of this module is not required for those completing the Data Science or Data Analyst tracks. In this module, you will learn how to build more powerful queries with advanced SQL techniques like views, transactions, stored procedures and joins.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Focuses on real-world application, developing practical skills and knowledge in SQL

Ideal for individuals seeking to start a career in Data Engineering, Data Warehousing, Data Analytics, Data Science, or Business Intelligence

Provides a strong foundation in SQL and many relational database (RDBMS) concepts

Emphasis on hands-on learning, allowing students to practice SQL queries on real databases and datasets

Covers intermediate SQL techniques, including sub-selects, nested queries, and joins

No prior knowledge of databases, SQL, or programming is required, making it accessible to beginners

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 SQL: A Practical Introduction for Querying Databases with these activities:

Review basic algebra

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Performing algebra drills before embarking on this course will put you in a better position to succeed.

Browse courses on Algebra

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Find a list of algebra practice problems online.
Practice solving at least 20 problems.

Participate in SQL discussion forums

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Engage with peers to exchange knowledge and perspectives on SQL

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Join online forums or discussion groups dedicated to SQL
Participate in discussions by asking questions, sharing your own experiences, and providing feedback to others

Seek mentorship from experienced SQL practitioners

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Connect with experts to gain insights and guidance on your SQL journey

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Identify potential mentors who have expertise in SQL and are willing to share their knowledge
Reach out to your mentors and express your interest in learning from their experiences
Schedule regular meetings or communication channels to receive mentorship and support

Two other activities

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Explore advanced SQL techniques

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Expand your knowledge and master more complex SQL concepts

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Identify specific advanced SQL techniques that you want to learn, such as working with subqueries, joins, or stored procedures
Find tutorials or online courses that provide guidance and practice opportunities for these techniques
Complete the tutorials and practice exercises to gain proficiency in using advanced SQL techniques

Develop a data analysis project

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Apply your SQL skills to a practical data analysis project

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Identify a dataset of interest and define a specific data analysis question or problem that you want to solve
Design and write SQL queries to extract, process, and analyze the data
Create visualizations or reports to present your findings and insights

Career center

Learners who complete SQL: A Practical Introduction for Querying Databases will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Business Intelligence Analyst

Business Intelligence Analysts use data to help businesses make better decisions. They work with data analysts and scientists to identify trends and patterns in data, and then they use this information to create reports and visualizations that can be used to inform business decisions. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to extract and analyze data from databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Business Intelligence Analyst.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to help businesses make informed decisions. They use their skills in statistics, programming, and data visualization to identify trends and patterns in data. This course provides a solid foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to extract and analyze data from databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Data Analyst.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists use their skills in statistics, programming, and machine learning to build models that can predict future trends and outcomes. They work with data analysts and engineers to develop and implement data-driven solutions to business problems. This course provides a solid foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to extract and analyze data from databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Data Scientist.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators ensure that all databases run smoothly and efficiently. They monitor performance, manage storage space, help set up databases, back up data, install software, and ensure security. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Database Administrator.

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Data Engineer

Data Engineers build and maintain the infrastructure that supports data analysis. They work with data analysts and scientists to design and implement data pipelines, data warehouses, and other data management systems. This course provides a solid foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Data Engineer.

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IT Auditor

IT Auditors evaluate the effectiveness of an organization's internal controls over information technology (IT) systems. They work with stakeholders to identify and mitigate risks to the organization's IT systems. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as an IT Auditor.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work with stakeholders to understand their needs, and then they use their technical skills to create software that meets those needs. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Software Engineer.

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IT Consultant

IT Consultants help organizations with their IT needs. They work with stakeholders to identify and solve problems with IT systems. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as an IT Consultant.

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Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. They work with stakeholders to understand their needs, and then they use their technical skills to create websites that meet those needs. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Web Developer.

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Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They work with stakeholders to identify and mitigate security risks. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as an Information Security Analyst.

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Data Architect

Data Architects design and build data management systems. They work with stakeholders to understand their data needs, and then they use their technical skills to create data management systems that meet those needs. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Data Architect.

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Data Warehouse Architect

Data Warehouse Architects design and build data warehouses. They work with stakeholders to understand their data needs, and then they use their technical skills to create data warehouses that meet those needs. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Data Warehouse Architect.

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Database Designer

Database Designers design and build databases. They work with stakeholders to understand their data needs, and then they use their technical skills to create databases that meet those needs. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Database Designer.

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Data Visualization Engineer

Data Visualization Engineers design and build data visualizations. They work with stakeholders to understand their data needs, and then they use their technical skills to create data visualizations that meet those needs. This course provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be well-prepared for a career as a Data Visualization Engineer.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for software, hardware, and other technical products. They work with stakeholders to understand the product, and then they use their writing skills to create documentation that is clear, concise, and accurate. This course may be useful for a career as a Technical Writer, as it provides a strong foundation in SQL, which is the programming language used to work with databases. By learning how to use SQL effectively, you will be able to better understand the technical products you are writing about.

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