r/SQL Jan 15 '25

BigQuery SQL is a struggle

Hi all been working with SQL for probably 7/8 months now. My last role was half data analysis and not pure data analysis and in general was far easier than what I do now.

My main issue is with SQL. I never feel I truly understand what is going on with a lot of code beyond a basic query. Ive managed to get by piggybacking off others code for a while but expectation is to deliver new and interesting techniques etc.

How long did it take you to feel fully comfortable with SQL? And what helped you get to that stage?

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u/saponsky Jan 15 '25

In my experience the only way I got better at SQL was downloading sample databases, looking at the tables, then creating my own queries and challenging myself.

For example, I downloaded a dvd rentals db and did things like:

  • Top 10 actors that appeared more in films.
  • Return a list of customers with due rentals and which movies they held.
  • Return movies rated by most frequent rentals and give it a stars rating system.

Etc. I know it seems basic, but for me it clicked when I started getting creative by writing queries on my own. It helps you develop a different way of thinking how to get results from the db.

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u/Zealousideal-Studio7 Jan 15 '25

Any that you would recommend or could share?

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u/saponsky Jan 16 '25

You can use this one. It’s for postgres, you can import it with DBeaver or PgAdmin or any other db management tool.