Here are the steps to start learning SQL: Begin with basic SQL commands ( SELECT , JOIN , WHERE ). Learn to filter and sort data using WHERE and ORDER BY. Study JOINs to combine tables. Practice with aggregate functions ( COUNT , AVG , SUM ). Use online SQL platforms (e.g., SQLBolt, LeetCode) for hands-on practice.

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Learn SQL

Q: How to learn SQL fast?

To learn SQL quickly: Focus on essential commands ( SELECT , JOIN , WHERE ). Use interactive online tutorials to practice immediately. Work on sample databases to understand data relations. Set up a small project to apply what you learn practically.

This hands-on course offers an introduction to SQL for absolute beginners, exploring how to ask questions, organize information, and retrieve instant answers from a database.

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Overview

Content

Reviews

Learn SQL basics with our beginner-friendly guide to understanding the language of data. You’ll start by learning to talk to a database: asking questions and getting meaningful answers using SQL. With AI-assisted guidance, you’ll explore the essentials—selecting columns, filtering rows, sorting results, and applying logic to uncover patterns in raw data. As your questions become more precise, you’ll explore grouping, aggregation, and subqueries to extract deeper insights. Then you’ll shift gears and learn how to create tables, insert and edit data, and design simple relational schemas. Finally, you’ll tackle real-world scenarios using joins, building multi-table queries, and designing interactive dashboards. You’ll complete hands-on challenges and projects like a student tracker and a game leaderboard. No prior experience with databases or programming is needed—this course is your friendly introduction to the language of data.

Learn SQL basics with our beginner-friendly guide to understanding the language of data. You’ll start by learning to talk to a d...Show More

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

An understanding of how to query data from tables

The ability to filter, sort, and group information

The ability to create and modify tables

Hands-on experience using JOINs and subqueries to connect data

An understanding of how to query data from tables

Content

77 Lessons16 Quizzes

Talk to a Table

23 Lessons

Learn to ask questions and get answers.

Ask Better Questions

17 Lessons

Be more precise, summarize, and start grouping things.

Do Math with Your Data

Quiz: Do Math with Your Data

Problem: Do Math with Your Data

Solution: Do Math with Your Data

Group Things Together

Quiz: Group Things Together

Problem: Group Things Together

Solution: Group Things Together

Only Keep Interesting Groups

Quiz: Only Keep Interesting Groups

Problem: Only Keep Interesting Groups

Solution: Only Keep Interesting Groups

Ask Questions About Questions

Quiz: Ask Questions About Questions

Problem: Ask Questions About Questions

Solution: Ask Questions About Questions

Project: Find the Top Performers

Create Your Own World

17 Lessons

Learn how to build, insert, and modify your own tables.

Connect the Dots

20 Lessons

Work with multiple tables like a real-world dataset.

Certificate of Completion

Showcase your accomplishment by sharing your certificate of completion.

Developed by MAANG Engineers

Every Educative lesson is designed by a team of ex-MAANG software engineers and PhD computer science educators, and developed in consultation with developers and data scientists working at Meta, Google, and more. Our mission is to get you hands-on with the necessary skills to stay ahead in a constantly changing industry. No video, no fluff. Just interactive, project-based learning with personalized feedback that adapts to your goals and experience.

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Hands-on Learning Powered by AI

See how Educative uses AI to make your learning more immersive than ever before.

Personalized Interview Prep

Skip the LeetCode grind with a custom roadmap that adapts to your goals. Hands-on practice for Coding Interviews, System Design, and more.

Mock Interviews

Test your skills in a simulated interview setting. Receive personalized feedback based on your performance. Available for Coding Interviews, System Design, and more.

AI Prompt

Build prompt engineering skills. Practice implementing AI-informed solutions.

Code Feedback

Evaluate and debug your code with the click of a button. Get real-time feedback on test cases, including time and space complexity of your solutions.

Explain with AI

Select any text within any Educative course, and get an instant explanation — without ever leaving your browser.

AI Code Mentor

AI Code Mentor helps you quickly identify errors in your code, learn from your mistakes, and nudge you in the right direction — just like a 1:1 tutor!

Free Resources

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Frequently Asked Questions

How to learn SQL?

Here are the steps to start learning SQL:

Begin with basic SQL commands (SELECT, JOIN, WHERE).
Learn to filter and sort data using WHERE and ORDER BY.
Study JOINs to combine tables.
Practice with aggregate functions (COUNT, AVG, SUM).
Use online SQL platforms (e.g., SQLBolt, LeetCode) for hands-on practice.

How long does it take to learn SQL?

Learning SQL basics can take 1–2 weeks with consistent practice. To become proficient enough for practical applications, expect 1–3 months, depending on prior experience.

Is SQL hard to learn?

SQL is generally considered easy to learn, especially for beginners, because its syntax is straightforward and similar to natural language. With regular practice, most people find it manageable.

Can I teach myself SQL?

Yes, SQL is self-teachable with the help of online resources, tutorials, and practice platforms. Many people successfully learn SQL independently and apply it in real-world projects.

Is SQL easier than Python?

For most beginners, SQL is easier than Python because of its simpler syntax and specific use cases for database queries. Python covers broader programming concepts, which can be more complex for new learners.

How to learn SQL fast?

To learn SQL quickly:

Focus on essential commands (SELECT, JOIN, WHERE).
Use interactive online tutorials to practice immediately.
Work on sample databases to understand data relations.
Set up a small project to apply what you learn practically.

Learn in-demand tech skills in half the time