This book, written for readers who have little or no previous experience with databases, SQL, or SQL Server, provides a very systematic approach to learning SQL using SQL Server. Each chapter is written in a step-by-step manner and has examples that can be run using SQL Server. Using the sample tables and data provided, the reader of this book will be able to do all the examples to experience hands-on SQL programming in SQL Server. The book also presents a series of exercises at the end of the chapters to help readers gain proficiency with SQL. With this book you will learn beginning SQL commands - how to retrieve and manipulate data using the simple SELECT statement; how to customize SQL Server 2008’s settings and about SQL Server 2008’s functions; how to create, alter, populate and delete tables; about joins, a common database mechanism for combining tables; query development, the use of views and other derived structures; simple set operations; about aggregate functions; how to write subqueries and correlated subqueries; how to create and use indexes and constraints; transaction processing.

If you've not programmed with Transact-SQL, this book is for you.It begins with an overview of SQL Server query operations and tools used with T-SQL, and covers both the 2005 and 2008 releases of SQL Server query tools and the query editor. The book then moves to show you how to design and build applications of increasing complexity. Other important tasks covered include full text indexing, optimizing query performance, and application design and security considerations. The companion website also provides all of the code examples from the book.

If you’re in charge of database administration, developing database software, or looking for database solutions for your company, Microsoft SQL Server 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies can help you get a handle on this extremely popular relational database management system. Here you’ll find what’s new in the latest version; how to choose and install the right variation for your needs; how to monitor, maintain, and protect your data; and what it takes to keep your database healthy. You’ll discover how to: Build and maintain tables Design a database and communicate with it Retrieve, analyze, and report data Build solid, robust database applications Use the SQL Server Optimizer and Query Designer Navigate SQL Server with Visual Studio Develop useful reports with the Report Builder and Report Designer Create Business Intelligence solutions with Business Intelligence Development Studio Configure your server and perform major administrative tasks To help you quickly find what you need, Microsoft SQL Server 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies is divided into nine minibooks: Essential Concepts Designing and Using Databases Interacting With Your Data Database Programming Reporting Services Analysis Services Performance Tips and Tricks Database Administration Appendixes Microsoft SQL Server 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies gets you started, helps you solve problems, and will even answer your questions down the road!

This comprehensive introduction to SQL Server begins with an overview of database design basics and the SQL query language along with an in-depth look at SQL Server itself Progresses on to a clear explanation of how to implement fundamental concepts with the new 2008 version of SQL Server Discusses creating and changing tables, managing keys, writing scripts, working with stored procedures, programming with XML, using SQL Server Reporting and Integration Services, and more Features updated and new material, including new examples using Microsoft's AdventureWorks sample database

400+ ready-to-use, powerful SQL queries Learn powerful techniques for surfacing and delivering actionable business intelligence using SQL. Practical SQL Queries for Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2 contains more than 400 downloadable SQL queries you can use to extract meaningful insights from large amounts of data. The application, syntax, and results of each query are described in detail. The book emphasizes SQL for use in SSMS, but the queries also apply to SSRS, WinForms, WebForms, and many other applications. Enter, maintain, and retrieve database data Search records using the Where clause Sort SQL query results with the Order By clause Create tables and perform joins on tables Perform set operations using Union, Intersect, and Except Group data and produce totals with the Group By clause Manipulate and transform data using built-in functions Create reusable views and user-defined functions Use stored procedures to change SQL dynamically based on conditional factors Create, maintain, and secure database objects with DDL and DCL Deliver SQL query results to end users

Readers will learn how to apply T-SQL fundamentals, create tables, and define data integrity, understand logical query processing and simplify code to go beyond the fundamentals with pivoting techniques and set grouping in this essential SQL server guide.

* The only truly Beginning level book on the market that is tailored to the needs of aspiring developers with little or no experience. Assumes no prior SQL Server knowledge. * Explores the new 2005 features fully but also suitable for SQL Server 2000 users. * The book provides everything an aspiring developer needs to start building SQL Server database applications.