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Important Note

Why you dont see SQL too often?

Some programmers, especially those working with high-level frameworks or open-source tools, may not have deep knowledge of SQL because these tools often abstract away the complexities of direct database interactions.

Frameworks like Django, Ruby on Rails, or Laravel handle database queries through Object-Relational Mapping (ORM), which simplifies SQL operations by allowing developers to interact with databases using higher-level language constructs.

As a result, many developers don't need to write raw SQL queries, as these frameworks automatically generate and execute the necessary SQL behind the scenes. This abstraction can lead to a limited understanding of SQL's deeper nuances, such as optimization, security (e.g., preventing SQL injection), or advanced query features.

Why should i learn SQL?

Learning SQL is important for several reasons, even if you're working with frameworks that abstract away database queries. Here are some compelling reasons why you should learn SQL:

  1. Deep Understanding of Data: SQL is the foundation of working with relational databases. Understanding SQL allows you to manipulate, query, and analyze data directly, giving you more control and flexibility than relying solely on frameworks or ORMs.

  2. Performance Optimization: While frameworks and ORMs are convenient, they don't always generate the most efficient SQL queries. Learning SQL helps you write optimized queries for better performance, especially when dealing with large datasets or complex operations.

  3. Troubleshooting: When things go wrong (e.g., slow queries, incorrect data retrieval), knowing SQL allows you to debug and troubleshoot more effectively. You'll be able to spot inefficiencies, identify database issues, and correct them directly.

  4. Flexibility in Database Management: Not all databases or tools use ORMs, and sometimes you may need to write custom SQL queries to access specific features or optimize performance. If you ever work with legacy systems or interact with databases outside of your primary framework, SQL knowledge will be invaluable.

  5. Advanced Features: SQL offers powerful capabilities like window functions, advanced joins, subqueries, and stored procedures that frameworks and ORMs might abstract away or not fully expose. Learning SQL gives you access to these advanced techniques for more complex queries and operations.

  6. Job Market Demand: Many roles, especially in data engineering, database administration, and full-stack development, require a solid understanding of SQL. Even if you're primarily using a framework, knowing SQL is often expected and will make you a more well-rounded developer.

  7. Cross-Platform Relevance: SQL is a universal language for relational databases, meaning you can apply your knowledge across various platforms like MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQL Server, and even cloud databases like AWS RDS or Google Cloud SQL. This cross-platform applicability makes SQL a valuable skill in many contexts.

In short, learning SQL gives you more control over your data, helps you optimize applications, and opens up opportunities for working with databases more effectively, regardless of the tools or frameworks you're using.