SQL

SQL stands for Structured Query Language. It represents a database computer language used to manage and structure relational DBMSs. It is the most common language used to interface with databases. It facilitates the retreival of information.

For example, here is a common SQL statement used to find students who earned the grade B in a specific class:

SELECT DISTINCTROR STUDENT_ID, GRADE FROM GRADES

WHERE GRADE = ''B''

ORDER BY STUDENT_ID.

SQL was standardized by ANSI, and then by ISO.

Most implementations of this language include a command-line interface (SQL/CLI), in order for the user to enter the language commands.

Principal SQL language elements include:

-clauses

-expressions

-predicates

-queries

-semicolon

Here is another practical example:

SELECT *
FROM Book
WHERE price > 100.00
ORDER BY title

Sources:

1) Information Systems Today, by Jessup, Valacich and Wade, 2nd ed.

2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SQL

3) http://www.w3schools.com/sql/default.asp

4) http://www.commentcamarche.net/contents/sql/sqlintro.php3

5)http://www.cnp-x.com/mysql/graphics/MySQL_logo.gif