How to learn SQL

SQL is the language for asking questions of databases. It is quick to learn and useful for analysts, developers and marketers alike.

Good for: Anyone who works with data, from analysts to developers. Typical time: 40–70 hours in total, depending on where you start.

The usual order of steps

1
Reading data≈ 8 h
SELECT, WHERE, ORDER BY and limits.
2
Grouping and joining≈ 15 h
GROUP BY, aggregate functions and JOINs.
3
Subqueries and window functions≈ 12 h
Harder questions in one query.
4
Designing tables≈ 10 h
Keys, relations and basic design.
5
Practice on real data≈ 15 h
Answer ten real questions on a public dataset.

Free or paid?

Many good courses for each step are free; paid ones usually add a certificate, feedback from a teacher or a fixed schedule. Check the current price, dates and age limits on the provider’s own site before you pay.

Where to look for courses

Search these platforms for “SQL”. Compare ratings, prices and the date of the last update before you choose.

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The hours are rough, typical figures, not promises. Plans are made by AI and may contain mistakes.