Context

Learn the basics of databases and SQL by writing simple queries to retrieve and manage data.

Starting hypothesis

• Understand what data is and why it matters
• Explain what a database is and why it is used
• Understand what SQL is and what it is used for
• Identify tables, rows, and columns
• Write simple SQL queries to retrieve information

Method / Used Tools

Understanding Tables, Rows, and Columns

What Is a Database

A database is a structured place where a computer stores information in an organised way. You can think of it as a digital notebook that never runs out of pages, where data can be stored, searched, and updated efficiently.

Instead of writing everything in plain text, a database organises information logically so it can be accessed quickly. Inside a database, information is stored in tables, which are the fundamental building blocks of most relational database systems.

Tables, Columns, and Rows

A table resembles a spreadsheet. Data is organised neatly using rows and columns, making it easy to understand and manage.

Each table is designed to store a specific type of information. For example, an e-commerce website might have separate tables for users, products, and orders.

In a table:

• Columns define the type of information being stored. They are the titles at the top of the table (e.g., username, email, price). Each column stores one specific type of data.
• Rows represent individual records. Each row contains one complete set of information.