Query

What is a Query?

A query is a specific request for information from a database. In robust database systems in particular, queries make it easier to perceive trends at a high level or make edits to data in large quantities. Queries enable users to locate records that meet certain criteria, make complex calculations, apply intricate operations to a large data set, and automate functions that are essential for data management. They also make it possible to consolidate data into digestible pieces of information for reporting purposes.

Types of queries

Regardless of the database or query language used, there are two primary types of queries that can be used for different goals:

  • Select queries return information from one or more tables. While this is the most basic type of query, select queries can be used to specify how many results are returned, the order in which they appear, the source(s) used, and the parameters for a record to be included.
  • Action queries perform a command on the data that has been retrieved, such as delete, alter, create, or update. This query allows a user to modify a large number of records in bulk instead of one at a time.

Query languages

Numerous query languages exist today. The most prevalent language is Structured Query Language (SQL), which is not to be confused with Microsoft SQL Server or the NewSQL class of databases. SQL is compatible with any database and serves as the foundation for many query language adaptations, so it has become a must-learn for most data scientists. Other languages include XQuery for XML documents, SPARQL for the Resource Description Framework (RDF) data model, and others.

Vangie Beal
Vangie Beal
Vangie Beal is a freelance business and technology writer covering Internet technologies and online business since the late '90s.
Get the Free Newsletter
Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
This email address is invalid.
Get the Free Newsletter
Subscribe to Daily Tech Insider for top news, trends & analysis
This email address is invalid.

Related Articles

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts a device's Internet access through a secure server. It is most frequently used for remote employees accessing a...

Gantt Chart

A Gantt chart is a type of bar chart that illustrates a project schedule and shows the dependency between tasks and the current schedule...

Input Sanitization

Input sanitization is a cybersecurity measure of checking, cleaning, and filtering data inputs from users, APIs, and web services of any unwanted characters and...

IT Asset Management Software

IT asset management software (ITAM software) is an application for organizing, recording, and tracking all of an organization s hardware and software assets throughout...

ScalaHosting

ScalaHosting is a leading managed hosting provider that offers secure, scalable, and affordable...

HRIS

Human resources information system (HRIS) solutions help businesses manage multiple facets of their...

Best Managed Service Providers...

In today's business world, managed services are more critical than ever. They can...