6 Reasons Why SQL Is A Must Learn Skill
Structured Query language (SQL) is the standard language for handling relational databases. You use it to store, search, query, and modify data.
SQL continues to be popular despite having been around for over four decades.
So, why should you learn SQL instead of concentrating on modern languages like Java, PHP, or C++? We will show you why with some pretty solid reasons.
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Learning It Is a Breeze
Sit in a Java coding class for the first time. One thing you will realize is how much mentally taxing it is. Memorizing complicated steps becomes the new normal.
People who are new to SQL marvel at how easy it is to learn. The first thing is that it uses everyday English. You find words like CREATE, UPDATE, and SELECT. Take the simple example of creating a Table.
The query would be as simple as CREATE TABLE. Beginners to coding will grasp the concepts pretty fast. It becomes easy to understand data manipulation. Students also learn how to develop and apply SQL in different scenarios.
2. It Is An Excellent Entry To Programming
If you want to make a foray into programming, start with SQL. As we have mentioned in the first point, it is easy to learn. But that is not all.
It is an open-source platform meaning the application is free. You benefit from access to a large community of users on the forums.
The members impact invaluable knowledge and tips to beginners. Learning SQL will shape your mind to be more open to understanding other coding languages.
Further, SQL makes it possible for non-developers or non-techies to learn to program. They don’t have to deal with complex terms that make little sense to them.
By mastering the basic commands and steps, the marketer, HR, and office admin can run the commands. No more depending on the IT department to run some of the tasks.
Besides learning about relational databases, beginners get knowledge on so much more. The trainers may also cover cloud storage, e-commerce apps, and even managing social media accounts.
3. SQL Is Ubiquitous
Imagine a programming language from the 1970s remains relevant to date. And that’s not all you will find its use almost everywhere.
Companies like Uber, Netflix, Instagram, and Google are happy clients. Interestingly many of these companies have their database systems. Yet. They will still use SQL for some of the data query and performance analyses.
Research shows that as of 2021, the only competition came from Oracle. The numbers two and three went to MySQL and Microsoft SQL servers. Not bad for a baby born in the 70s, right?
Another reason for its popularity could be that the language never changes. A student in a modern classroom learns the same things the 1970s student did.
If the trend is anything to go by, the same will apply ten years from today. You don’t have to spend hours updating your skillset to use the language.
4. SQL Skills Make You Marketable
Take a minute to look at some of the job boards on platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed. One thing that will jump at you is how marketable SQL is.
Employers want people with SQL knowledge, even for entry-level jobs. It is also one of the requirements for data analysts, data scientists, and data engineers.
Here is the exciting part. You might be an expert in other programming languages like Python. Yet, you may find that you are not suitable for the positions because you do not have SQL skills.
The reality is many consider SQL an industry standard. You may find variations such as MySQL, Firebird, or SQLite. But they draw their base functionality from the original SQL.
And now, here is more exciting news. According to Ziprecruiter, the average salary range for SQL developers is almost $100,000 per year! If you are not already signing up for classes, you should be.
5. Better Data Handling
A typical organization generates a lot of data every single day. Imagine having to use spreadsheets like Excel to handle such. It can be tricky, time-consuming, and tedious. Now, take a worst-case scenario where the program crashes.
It can happen if the amount of information is too much. If you have never had to deal with data loss in this way, count yourself amongst the lucky few. While helpful, spreadsheets work well for small pools of data.
Relational databases can handle tons of data with ease. After all, that is why they exist. They are ideal for large operations, but you have to have the right language to enjoy the benefits. You get all the functionalities you need with SQL.
6. Quick Access To Data
Data management and mining can be time-consuming and difficult. With SQL, gathering information is easy with the use of queries. It allows you to view, monitor, identify specific data, and so much more.
Businesses can get answers to questions that often come up. Such include sales projections, customer satisfaction ratings, and even expense tracking. The only input you need is to identify the database containing the relevant information.
You then let the program explore and generate relevant reports. There is no need to spend hours analyzing large blocks of data. All you need to do is identify the exact information you want to look at.
Data-driven insights are critical for better decision-making. Further, the level of efficiency you achieve with the processes is high.
Final Thoughts
We have looked at six reasons why you should sign up for a SQL course. You get valuable knowledge on how to handle data. What you will love is how easy it is to grasp the concepts.
The use of Standard English words removes the complexities that are common with many programming languages. You will find SQL applications almost everywhere. It is a popular language amongst developers.
Employers also place a lot of value in individuals with the skill set. You can land a plum job that could see you take home over $100,000 every year. Organizations that invest in training teams on SQL applications will realize many benefits.
Staff members will know how to handle and mine data. They will have quick access to information and reports when they need them. They can then base all decisions using data-driven insights. The organization will achieve higher productivity and efficiency in the processes.
