SQL

SQL, or Structured Query Language, defines the syntax for how questions should be asked of a database. SQL, like HTML and XML, is a regulated standard, which means that it should work the same way from one RDBMS to another. However, just as Web browsers support HTML differently, some database applications will support SQL that others might have problems with. Ultimately, your best bet is to check with the manual of the particular application you are using.

Now for a list (Table B.1) and a brief discussion about the standard SQL commands and operators.

Table B.1. These eight terms will do most of the work in any database application.
SQL Terminology
Term Usage
ALTER Change the format of a table
CREATE Create a table or database
DELETE Delete ...

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