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Practice

2

deck​

1. Beyond Basics: Where to Go Next​

Now that you've practiced core SQL techniques, the next level brings advanced tools that scale with real data work.

Advanced SQL lets you:

  • Compare rows (rankings, running totals)
  • Reuse logic across queries
  • Tune performance on large datasets

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2. Key Advanced Concepts​

ConceptWhat It Enables
Window FunctionsRow comparisons, rankings, running totals
Common Table Expr.Cleaner, modular logic in complex queries
ViewsSave and reuse reusable query logic
IndexesSpeed up queries by optimizing how data is read
EXPLAIN PlansDiagnose and improve slow queries

These are essential for working with larger datasets and production workflows.


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3. Tools You'll Encounter​

As SQL becomes part of your toolkit, you'll see it in:

  • BI tools: Looker, Power BI, Tableau
  • Data platforms: BigQuery, Snowflake, Redshift
  • Pipelines: dbt, Airflow, ETL scripts
  • APIs & Backends: embedded SQL logic in real apps

Learning SQL isn't just theory—it connects across the stack.


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4. Practice Ideas to Level Up​

Ways to apply your SQL skills:

  • Analyze public datasets (e.g. NYC Taxi, COVID stats)
  • Build a dashboard using real business metrics
  • Start a GitHub repo of SQL tips or project walkthroughs
  • Join a data challenge like Kaggle or SQLPad.io

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5. Keep Going: Learn by Doing​

Don't stop here—iterate and build:

  • Improve queries you've already written
  • Rewrite them using CTEs or RANK()
  • Ask new questions of old data

SQL mastery comes not from memorization, but from solving real problems with clarity.

You're ready for it.

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