Structured Query Language (SQL) is a programming language that makes interactions with databases possible. It is used when managing relational databases which are the most popular databases we have today.
The right SQL skills will not only help you understand and get more from data but also boost the chances of growing your career. SQL can also be used for data analysis, reporting, and in other non-technical roles.
Here are tools and resources you can use to improve your SQL skills;
SQL Courses
Taking a Live SQL Course
The first thing you need to do to gain SQL skills is to take a live SQL course. If you are a beginner, you need a course where you have the right guidance and training on the basics that you need to hone your skills.
If you are at the stage where you already have the basic skills and need an advanced SQL course, then you can choose from one of the most reputable online platforms we have today.
Fortunately, with a computer and access to the internet, you can gain access to these platforms from anywhere in the world. You can even set your schedules depending on your availability.
Practice Platforms
You also need practice platforms where you can gain confidence when working with SQL. Some of the best platforms include;
SQLPad
SQLPad is a new platform that allows you to practice the things you have learned in the online courses discussed above. It is not only useful for people looking to improve their SQL skills but also for those preparing for an interview that requires the same skills.
This platform provides you with all the possible practice options you might need. You will be able to deploy, practice, and watch different SQL queries at work. All you need for this is a browser and internet connection.
HackerRank
HackerRank is the most popular SQL practice tool in the world today. This is because of its features that blend conceptual and innovative questions that are vital in helping you understand SQL concepts better.
This platform comes with challenging practice questions placed under three categories, namely Hard, Medium, and Easy. Moving from easy to hard ensures that you can handle the basics to the most advanced SQL tasks.
LeetCode
LeetCode is another SQL practice platform that comes with a list of topics over its non-premium and premium plans. You get questions under all these topics for practice as well as solutions to all the questions.
This helps you in understanding the best way you can handle different SQL tasks. In addition to the questions and answers, you also get personalized plans that best fit your schedule.
You can also use LeetCode when preparing for an interview. The platform has all the questions asked by companies such as Bloomberg, Apple, Microsoft, Facebook, Amazon, and Google.
DevSkiller
Finally, DevSkiller is an SQL practice platform that is built for developers by developers. It is used for assessing and growing tech talent, not just SQL skills.
DevSkiller is an amazing platform for developers because it addresses the different challenges and issues that they face. It also helps them improve their tech skills, among them SQL skills.
Testing Your Skills
Now that you have taken a live SQL course and used one or more of the platforms above for your practice, you need access to testing tools or platforms.
Since SQL is one of the top 25 highest-paying programming languages, you need testing to give you an edge in the competitive job market.
One of the best tools for testing your SQL skills is SQL Quiz. This tool comes with random questions for you to answer. It also tracks your progress as well as your results throughout the tests.
If you miss any of the questions, you can go back to the live SQL course material for consultation. Those looking for advanced SQL testing can use tools such as schemaverse.
Conclusion
SQL skills are not only important for developers but also for people in other non-technical roles. Gaining these skills could be the only thing that you need for you to climb up the ladder in your career. Fortunately, the tools and resources discussed above can help you with that.
Cover Image by mohamed Hassan from Pixabay
