A Guide to SQL

A GUIDE TO SQL, 8E, continues to be the essential SQL reference. It builds on the success of previous editions by presenting basic SQL commands in the context of a running case in which a business uses SQL to manage orders, parts, customers, and sales reps. The book covers the fundamentals of SQL programming using straightforward instruction and extensive hands-on exercises. Continuing with its focus on learning the basics regardless of the database environment chosen, this edition features examples from the latest databases: Oracle 11g, Access 2007, and MySQL. The eighth edition expands on the use of running case studies by adding a third running case to the extensive hands-on pedagogy at the end of every chapter.

A GUIDE TO SQL, 8E, illustrates the basics of SQL programming using straightforward instruction and extensive hands-on exercises. Phil Pratt and Mary Last continue to present basic SQL commands in a business context using Oracle. A new running case, for a total of three, presents lessons in a real-world context for managing orders, parts, customers, and sales reps. The text provides hands-on projects at the end of each chapter, including review questions, running cases, and extensive exercises, providing students with the opportunity to solve problems and apply skills from each chapter.

Philip J. Pratt is Professor Emeritus of Mathematics and Computer Science at Grand Valley State University, where he taught for 33 years. His teaching interests include database management, systems analysis, complex analysis, and discrete mathematics. He has authored over 60 textbooks, including coauthoring three levels of Microsoft Office Access 2007 books for the Shelly Cashman Series.

Mary Z. Last is Chair of the Business Information Technology and Systems Department and Director of the Center for Effectiveness in Learning and Teaching at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas. Last is a contributing author on the Shelly Cashman Series' Microsoft Office Access texts and coauthor of A GUIDE TO MYSQL. She also has authored instructor resource materials for a variety of texts.