SQL commands are categorized based on their functionality when interacting with a database. Each command type is used for specific operations, such as managing data, controlling access, or maintaining database structure. There are five primary categories of SQL commands: DDL, DML, DQL, DCL, and TCL.
Table of Contents
Data Definition Language (DDL)
DDL commands are primarily used to define and modify the structure of database objects such as tables, indexes, and schemas. These commands have a lasting impact on the database structure.
Common DDL Commands:
- CREATE: Used to create new tables, views, indexes, or other database objects.
- ALTER: Modifies an existing database object, such as a table or column.
- DROP: Deletes an entire table, view, or database object.
- TRUNCATE: Removes all rows from a table without deleting the table structure.
Data Manipulation Language (DML)
DML commands are primarily used to manipulate the data stored in database tables. These commands are essential for adding, modifying, and deleting data within the database.
Common DML Commands:
- INSERT: Adds new rows (records) into a table.
- UPDATE: Modifies existing records in a table.
- DELETE: Removes one or more records from a table.
Data Query Language (DQL)
DQL primarily consists of the SELECT statement, which is used to query the database and retrieve data. It is the most frequently used SQL command, allowing users to fetch specific data from one or more tables.
DQL Command:
- SELECT: Retrieves data from the database based on specified criteria
Data Control Language (DCL)
DCL commands manage the access rights and permissions for users in a database. These commands help ensure database security by controlling who can view or modify the data.
Common DCL Commands:
- GRANT: Gives user-specific access rights to a database.
- REVOKE: Removes previously granted access rights from a user.
Transaction Control Language (TCL)
TCL commands deal with the management of transactions within a database. They help ensure the integrity of data during transaction processing by allowing users to commit or rollback transactions.
Common TCL Commands:
- COMMIT: Saves the changes made during a transaction to the database permanently.
- ROLLBACK: Reverts the changes made during a transaction to the previous state.
- SAVEPOINT: Sets a point within a transaction to which a rollback can occur.
Conclusion
SQL commands are grouped based on their role in managing and interacting with the database. Each category—DDL, DML, DQL, DCL, and TCL—plays a critical role in defining, manipulating, securing, and maintaining database transactions. Understanding these commands is essential for anyone working with databases, as they form the foundation of SQL programming.
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