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Travis Cuzick

Do you already know the basics of SQL, but sometimes get frustrated when you encounter situations where the basics just aren't enough?

Are you a junior analyst who wants to level up to advanced SQL so you can take the next step in your career?

Or maybe you're a data scientist who knows enough SQL to get by, but want to take your skills further so you can spend less time wrangling data and more time building models.

If any of these sound like your situation, then you're in the right place. This course on advanced SQL for data analysis  has everything that isn't covered in introductory SQL courses.

Read more

Do you already know the basics of SQL, but sometimes get frustrated when you encounter situations where the basics just aren't enough?

Are you a junior analyst who wants to level up to advanced SQL so you can take the next step in your career?

Or maybe you're a data scientist who knows enough SQL to get by, but want to take your skills further so you can spend less time wrangling data and more time building models.

If any of these sound like your situation, then you're in the right place. This course on advanced SQL for data analysis  has everything that isn't covered in introductory SQL courses.

The curriculum goes DEEP, spanning all the advanced techniques you'll ever need to wrangle and analyze data in the fastest and most efficient way possible.

And these concepts aren't presented in isolation; everything is taught in the context of real-world analytics scenarios, meaning you'll be ready to apply these techniques on the job from day one.

Here's a look at just some of the things you'll get out of this course:

  • Make the leap to Senior Analyst by mastering advanced data wrangling techniques with SQL

  • Become the resident SQL expert on your team

  • Perform nuanced analysis of large datasets with Window Functions

  • Use subqueries, CTEs and temporary tables to handle complex, multi-stage queries and data transformations

  • Write efficient, optimized SQL

  • Leverage indexes to speed up your SQL queries

  • Supercharge your SQL knowledge with procedural programming techniques like variables and IF statements

  • Program database objects like user defined functions and stored procedures that will make life easier for you AND your teammates

  • Master useful tips and tricks not found in most database courses, like Dynamic SQL

  • Gain an intuition for what technique to apply and when

  • Train your brain with tons of hands-on exercises that reflect real-world business scenarios

What makes this course different

There are three things that really set this course apart.

First is its scope. We'll dig deep into the advanced toolbox that SQL has to offer, uncovering techniques to solve problems that leave even senior analysts scratching their heads.

Second is a relentless focus on that practical, real-world applications. Techniques are taught not as abstract concepts, but rather as solutions to common data wrangling and analytics problems. And whenever possible, these techniques are presented, not in isolation, but in combination with other things that have already been covered. This "spiral" approach reinforces concepts you've learned so they stay with you long after taking the course.

Finally, and most importantly, the course provides a treasure trove of coding exercises that give you ample opportunity for hands-on practice. And these exercises are distributed throughout the course - not clustered together after hours of videos. This means you'll have an opportunity to practice every concept you learn, right after you learn it.

So if you want to go from SQL apprentice to SQL master, enroll today. I look forward to seeing you in the course.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Installing sql server and sql server management studio
  • Window functions
  • Correlated subqueries
  • Advanced filtering with exists and not exists
  • Flattening data with pivot
  • Generating data series with recursive ctes
  • Leveraging ctes and temporary tables to break complex processes into manageable steps
  • Defining and manipulating tables with ddl and dml commands
  • Designing lookup tables to simplify redundant analysis
  • Sql optimization techniques, including indexes
  • Procedural programming techniques like variables and if statements
  • Defining your own sql functions
  • Creating stored procedures for flexible, repeatable analysis
  • Supercharge your sql knowledge with procedural programming techniques like variables and if statements
  • Writing code that writes code, with dynamic sql
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Before we start coding...
Introduction
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE READ
Installing SQL Server 2019 Express
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores advanced SQL techniques, helping learners navigate complex data analysis
Suitable for intermediate SQL learners who want to advance
Provides hands-on exercises for practical application
Taught by industry experts with a strong reputation
Covers topics relevant to real-world data analysis scenarios
Requires prior SQL knowledge and may require additional prerequisites

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Reviews summary

Advanced sql for real-world data analysis

According to students, this course is a game-changer for those looking to level up their SQL skills from a basic understanding to an advanced level needed for data analysis. Learners frequently highlight the instructor's clear explanations and the course's strong emphasis on hands-on exercises and real-world application, making it immediately useful for their jobs. Specific topics like Window Functions, CTEs, and Dynamic SQL are praised for their thorough coverage. While largely positive, some learners noted inconsistent pacing or a need for more prior intermediate knowledge to fully grasp all concepts smoothly, suggesting it might be better for high-intermediate users rather than strict beginners moving to advanced.
Equips learners with skills for career advancement.
"This course is an absolute game-changer for anyone wanting to seriously level up their SQL skills."
"This course fills a huge gap between beginner SQL and what's actually needed in a data analysis role."
"It truly equips you with the skills to tackle real-world data problems."
"Overall, a solid investment for my career development."
Comprehensive dive into key advanced SQL features.
"I particularly found the sections on Window Functions and Dynamic SQL to be extremely well-explained and practical."
"It covers a lot of ground, from CTEs to stored procedures."
"I learned a ton about performance optimization with indexes and user-defined functions that I didn't get from other courses."
"The content on window functions and CTEs alone is worth the price."
Ample practical opportunities to reinforce learning.
"The hands-on exercises truly solidify the concepts."
"The practical application focus is superb."
"The hands-on practice makes a huge difference."
"The practical exercises are the highlight of the course for me."
Excellent explanations and real-world scenarios.
"The instructor's explanations are incredibly clear, and the hands-on exercises truly solidify the concepts."
"This masterclass broke down advanced topics like recursive CTEs and optimization techniques into understandable chunks."
"It truly equips me with the skills to tackle real-world data problems."
"I've been able to apply these techniques immediately at work."
Some found the pace uneven, requiring more prior knowledge.
"I found the pace inconsistent. Some topics were covered too quickly for an 'advanced' course..."
"...assuming a bit too much prior knowledge on certain aspects beyond basic SQL."
"While it claims to be advanced, it often revisits basic concepts briefly, then jumps to complex ones without enough scaffolding."
"I felt I needed to consult external resources quite a lot to follow along."

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 The Advanced SQL Server Masterclass For Data Analysis with these activities:
Review Basic SQL Concepts
Refreshing your knowledge of basic SQL concepts will help you prepare for the more advanced topics covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Review the course materials on basic SQL concepts.
  • Complete the practice exercises provided in the course.
Create a Database and Populate it with Data
Creating a database and populating it with data will give you hands-on experience with the fundamental concepts of SQL.
Browse courses on Inserting Data
Show steps
  • Choose a database management system (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL).
  • Create a new database.
  • Create tables and define their columns.
  • Insert data into the tables.
  • Verify that the data was inserted correctly.
Attend a SQL Meetup or Conference
Connecting with other SQL professionals can provide you with valuable insights and networking opportunities.
Show steps
  • Find a local SQL Meetup or conference.
  • Register for the event.
  • Attend the event and participate in discussions.
  • Connect with other SQL professionals.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Follow tutorials on advanced SQL techniques
Enhance your SQL skills by following online tutorials that cover advanced techniques such as window functions, CTEs, and stored procedures.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on specific SQL techniques
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes
  • Practice the techniques in the tutorials
Practice database queries
Practice writing and executing SQL queries to reinforce your understanding of the syntax and concepts covered in the course.
Browse courses on SQL Queries
Show steps
  • Set up a database environment
  • Write queries to retrieve data, filter data, and perform aggregations
  • Use subqueries, joins, and other advanced techniques
Complete the Exercises in the Course
Practicing SQL queries in the exercises provided in the course will help you solidify your understanding of the concepts and techniques taught.
Show steps
  • Follow the instructions in each exercise.
  • Execute the queries and verify the results.
  • Review the solutions provided in the course.
Build a data analysis dashboard
Create a data analysis dashboard that visualizes and analyzes data using the techniques covered in the course.
Browse courses on Dashboard
Show steps
  • Gather and clean the data
  • Design the dashboard layout and visualizations
  • Implement the dashboard using a data visualization tool
Attend an Advanced SQL Workshop
Attending an advanced SQL workshop can give you the opportunity to learn from experts and ask specific questions related to the topics covered in the course.
Show steps
  • Find an advanced SQL workshop that fits your needs.
  • Register for the workshop.
  • Attend the workshop and participate in discussions.
  • Apply the concepts learned in the workshop to your work.
Contribute to an Open-Source SQL Project
Contributing to an open-source SQL project will allow you to gain practical experience and connect with the SQL community.
Show steps
  • Find an open source SQL project to contribute to.
  • Read the project's documentation.
  • Identify a feature or bug that you can work on.
  • Implement the feature or fix the bug.
  • Submit a pull request.

Career center

Learners who complete The Advanced SQL Server Masterclass For Data Analysis will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Advanced SQL Server Masterclass For Data Analysis.
The third edition of the essential guide to data wrangling with pandas, NumPy, and Jupyter in Python. Updated for newer versions of the libraries, this book remains a core resource for anyone performing data analysis in Python. It widely used textbook and reference for its clear explanations and practical examples.
Focuses on the use of if statements in the Ruby programming language. It covers the syntax, semantics, and common idioms used in Ruby, and provides numerous examples to help readers master the topic. The book is written in a clear and concise style, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced Ruby programmers.
Delves into the performance optimization techniques for SQL Server. It covers indexing, query tuning, hardware optimization, and more.
Is considered a foundational text in convex optimization, a subfield with wide applications. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the subject, covering theoretical concepts and practical algorithms. It is widely used as a textbook in universities and is an excellent reference for researchers and practitioners. While mathematically rigorous, it emphasizes intuitive understanding and practical problem-solving.
Similar to the previous book, this one focuses on the use of if statements in the Java programming language. It covers the syntax, semantics, and common idioms used in Java, and provides numerous examples to help readers master the topic. The book is written in a clear and concise style, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced Java programmers.
Focuses on the use of if statements in the C++ programming language. It covers the syntax, semantics, and common idioms used in C++, and provides numerous examples to help readers master the topic. The book is written in a clear and concise style, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced C++ programmers.
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Focuses on the use of if statements in the Scala programming language. It covers the syntax, semantics, and common idioms used in Scala, and provides numerous examples to help readers master the topic. The book is written in a clear and concise style, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced Scala programmers.
Focuses on the use of if statements in the PHP programming language. It covers the syntax, semantics, and common idioms used in PHP, and provides numerous examples to help readers master the topic. The book is written in a clear and concise style, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced PHP programmers.
Focuses on the use of if statements in the Rust programming language. It covers the syntax, semantics, and common idioms used in Rust, and provides numerous examples to help readers master the topic. The book is written in a clear and concise style, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced Rust programmers.
Dives deep into how databases execute SQL queries and what factors influence performance. Understanding query execution plans and optimization is critical for using subqueries effectively in high-performance applications. This is an essential read for graduate students and professionals focused on database performance.
A comprehensive and well-regarded textbook focusing on numerical methods for optimization. It covers both unconstrained and constrained optimization problems and is known for its clear explanations of algorithms. is suitable for graduate students and researchers and serves as a valuable reference for those implementing optimization techniques.
Focuses on using SQL for data analysis, covering advanced techniques relevant to the topic, including sophisticated uses of subqueries and window functions. It's ideal for undergraduate students, graduate students, and professionals looking to leverage SQL for in-depth data analysis.
A problem/solution-oriented book that provides practical recipes for tackling common SQL challenges. It includes many examples of using subqueries to solve real-world querying problems. is suitable for undergraduate students and working professionals looking to deepen their practical SQL skills.
This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of SQL Server 2019, including installation, configuration, administration, and more.
Provides a foundational understanding of the fundamental principles of data science and the data-analytic thinking necessary for extracting value from data in a business context. It is highly relevant for undergraduate business analytics programs and working professionals. It serves as a useful reference for understanding the business applications of data analysis and is commonly used as a textbook.
Provides a comprehensive overview of CTEs in SQL Server, covering topics such as creating and using CTEs, optimizing CTEs for performance, and using CTEs in complex queries. The authors are both experienced SQL Server experts, and the book is written in a clear and concise style.
Offers practical advice and patterns for writing efficient and effective SQL queries. It includes discussions on how to use subqueries optimally and avoid common pitfalls. This valuable resource for undergraduate students, graduate students, and professionals aiming to improve their SQL coding practices.
Dives into common mistakes and suboptimal solutions in database design and SQL coding, explaining how to identify and correct them. It's crucial for deepening understanding and writing more robust and maintainable SQL. It's a valuable resource for developers and database professionals seeking to improve their practices.
Similar to their other book, this version specifically targets SQL Server 2019 and focuses on the expert-level usage of window functions within that environment. It's highly relevant for professionals working with this specific database version and seeking in-depth knowledge of window function capabilities and optimizations in SQL Server 2019.
While focused on MySQL, this book provides in-depth coverage of database and SQL performance tuning that is applicable to other systems. It's essential for those working with large datasets and high-traffic applications. It's a comprehensive guide for optimizing SQL queries and database infrastructure.
Focuses on the crucial skill of communicating insights from data effectively through compelling visualizations. is highly relevant for all levels, emphasizing the importance of clear and impactful data presentation. It is valuable additional reading that complements technical data analysis skills.
Authored by a leading figure in convex optimization, this book provides a concise and advanced treatment of the subject. It is highly theoretical and suitable for graduate students and researchers with a strong mathematical background interested in the cutting edge of convex optimization theory.
This guide simplifies complex SQL window functions with clear explanations, practical examples, and hands-on exercises. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced data analysts. The book covers essential window functions like ROW_NUMBER, RANK(), LEAD(), and LAG(), as well as advanced functions.
Offers a rigorous introduction to linear optimization, a cornerstone of the field. It covers fundamental concepts, simplex method, duality, and network flow problems. It is often used as a textbook for introductory graduate courses in optimization and operations research. It solid foundation for understanding more advanced topics.
Provides a rigorous foundation in convex analysis and its applications in optimization. It delves into duality theory, minimax problems, and constrained optimization. It valuable resource for those seeking a deep theoretical understanding of convexity in optimization and is suitable for advanced graduate students and researchers.
While focused on T-SQL (for Microsoft SQL Server), this book provides a deep and rigorous understanding of SQL fundamentals that are applicable to many dialects. It's highly regarded for its clear explanations and challenging examples, making it excellent for solidifying core concepts. It's often used by professionals working with SQL Server.
Bridges the gap between statistical theory and its practical application in data science using R and Python. It focuses on the statistical concepts most relevant to data scientists and provides code examples. It's a useful reference and learning resource for those applying statistics in their work.
Tailored for aspiring data scientists, this book focuses on the SQL skills needed for data analysis, including dataset construction and manipulation. It bridges the gap between basic SQL and its application in data science workflows. Relevant for those entering or working in the data science field.
Delves specifically into the critical aspect of data cleaning within data wrangling. It provides a comprehensive overview of techniques for identifying and repairing errors in data. It's a more specialized text that is highly relevant for those who need to develop a deep understanding of data quality issues and their resolution.
Offers an approachable and practical introduction to SQL, particularly for those interested in data analysis and storytelling. It uses PostgreSQL for examples but the concepts are widely applicable. It's great for beginners and those who want to apply SQL skills to real-world data tasks.
Offers a new way of thinking about data science and ethics informed by intersectional feminist thought. It challenges existing power structures within data and explores how data can be used to work towards justice. It's highly relevant for contemporary discussions around fairness and bias in data analysis.
Provides a hands-on approach to learning and practicing SQL through a variety of problems. It's an excellent supplement to theoretical learning and helps solidify understanding through practical application. Suitable for all levels looking to improve their problem-solving skills with SQL.
Provides a comprehensive treatment of stochastic optimization problems, which involve uncertainty. It covers theoretical foundations, algorithms, and applications. It is suitable for graduate students and researchers working on optimization problems with random elements.
Provides a guide to creating effective and aesthetically pleasing data visualizations. It delves into the principles behind good visualization design, helping readers make informed choices about how to represent their data. It valuable reference for anyone creating visualizations, from students to professionals.
Provides an accessible yet rigorous introduction to optimization theory and methods. It covers unconstrained and constrained optimization, linear programming, and introduces global search methods. It is suitable for upper-undergraduate and graduate students and can serve as a good starting point for those new to the field.
Offers a thorough guide to data cleaning, a fundamental part of data wrangling. It provides step-by-step explanations and best practices for preparing data for analysis, focusing on reducing errors and improving data quality. It's a valuable resource for anyone involved in primary data collection and preparation.
Provides a practical, hands-on approach to data wrangling using Python, aimed at readers who may not have extensive programming backgrounds. It covers essential techniques for acquiring, cleaning, analyzing, and presenting data efficiently. It's a good resource for those looking to move beyond spreadsheet software for data analysis and automate their data processes.
Although specific to MySQL, this book offers in-depth coverage of database performance and query optimization principles that are broadly applicable, including the performance implications of different querying techniques like subqueries. Relevant for graduate students and professionals working with MySQL or interested in database performance tuning.
Provides comprehensive coverage of SQL Server for developers, including detailed explanations and examples of querying techniques like subqueries. It's a practical guide suitable for undergraduate students and professionals learning or working with SQL Server.
This concise guide provides a quick and easy way to learn about SQL Server's features and capabilities. It covers everything from installation and configuration to performance tuning and security.
Is an excellent starting point for anyone new to data analysis or statistics. It demystifies core statistical concepts without relying heavily on mathematical formulas, making it highly accessible for high school and undergraduate students. It provides a strong foundation in the intuition behind statistical analysis and helps readers understand how data can be used and misused. This is valuable background reading that builds prerequisite knowledge.
A comprehensive textbook on combinatorial optimization, covering a wide range of topics includingグラフ理論 (graph theory), matroids, and approximation algorithms. It is suitable for graduate students and researchers in mathematics, computer science, and operations research.
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Feature engineering crucial part of data wrangling for machine learning applications. provides a practical guide to creating and transforming features from raw data, which is essential for building effective machine learning models. It's particularly relevant for those interested in the intersection of data wrangling and machine learning.
While focused on Oracle's procedural extension to SQL (PL/SQL), this comprehensive book covers advanced SQL concepts within the Oracle environment, including how subqueries are used and optimized in PL/SQL blocks. It's a must-read for graduate students and professionals working extensively with Oracle databases.
Teaches probability and statistics using a computational approach with Python. It's ideal for students and professionals with programming experience who want to understand statistical concepts by doing. It helps solidify understanding through hands-on application.
Comprehensive guide for data analysts and scientists using SQL. It covers performing robust data analysis using SQL, including advanced functions like window functions for complex statistical calculations. It offers user-friendly explanations and practical examples relevant to BI tools, making it valuable for applying window functions in a data analysis context.
A deep dive into how the SQL Server Query Optimizer works, which is essential for advanced performance tuning. is highly technical and geared towards those who need to understand the low-level details of query execution. It's valuable for database administrators and senior developers.

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