Learn SQL Course Syllabus

Overview: This hands-on SQL course is designed for beginners and spans approximately 8 weeks with a balanced mix of theory and practice. Each module builds on the previous one, guiding you from basic SQL syntax to advanced analytics and performance optimization. With an estimated time commitment of 6–8 hours per week, you'll work through real-world datasets and scenarios, culminating in a final project that solidifies your ability to write efficient, production-ready queries.

Module 1: SQL Basics & Setup

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Installing and connecting to a database (PostgreSQL/MySQL)
• Writing basic SELECT queries
• Filtering data using WHERE clause
• Hands-on: Query a sample employees table to retrieve specific records

Module 2: Data Retrieval & Filtering

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Sorting results with ORDER BY
• Limiting output using LIMIT
• Pattern matching with LIKE and wildcards
• Using logical operators (AND, OR, NOT) for complex filters

Module 3: Joining Tables

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Performing inner joins and outer joins (left, right, full)
• Applying self-joins and cross joins
• Combining multiple tables to consolidate data
• Hands-on: Combine orders and customer tables for sales reporting

Module 4: Aggregation & Grouping

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Using GROUP BY to summarize data
• Applying aggregate functions (SUM, COUNT, AVG, MIN, MAX)
• Filtering grouped data with HAVING clause
• Hands-on: Calculate monthly revenue and identify top customers

Module 5: Subqueries & Common Table Expressions

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Writing inline and correlated subqueries
• Using Common Table Expressions (CTEs) with WITH clauses
• Breaking down complex queries into modular components
• Hands-on: Simplify nested queries using CTEs

Module 6: Window Functions & Advanced Analytics

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Understanding ROW_NUMBER, RANK, and DENSE_RANK
• Using LEAD and LAG for time-series analysis
• Calculating running totals and moving averages
• Hands-on: Generate sales trends and rank product performance

Module 7: Data Modification & Transaction Control

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Inserting, updating, and deleting data with DML statements
• Managing transactions using BEGIN, COMMIT, and ROLLBACK
• Handling constraint violations safely
• Hands-on: Update inventory and rollback on errors

Module 8: Schema Design & Performance Tuning

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Designing normalized schemas (1NF–3NF)
• Implementing primary and foreign keys
• Creating indexes for query optimization
• Analyzing execution plans across RDBMS
• Hands-on: Build and optimize an e-commerce database schema

Prerequisites

• Basic computer literacy
• No prior programming experience required
• Access to a web browser (database tools provided in-browser)

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Write efficient SQL queries using SELECT, JOIN, GROUP BY, HAVING, and subqueries
• Design and normalize relational databases with proper indexing strategies
• Perform advanced data analytics using window functions
• Modify data safely using DML and transaction control
• Optimize query performance and interpret execution plans