Product Description

Customer Reviews (8)

Technically illuminating and human readable.
I agree with the other reviewers here, this is an exceptional book. I love the format - 50 some different essays on specific SQL Server topics. It works for me. I want to keep up with things but I don't have it in me to read an 800 page SQL Server book every month. I can read a 15 page essay about a particular topic though. Plus, the book covers a wide variety of material, from basic design ideas to the SQL CE, XML, BI, PowerShell, amongst many others.

What I've read has been clearly written and insightful. It's actually pleasant to read.

Highly recommended.

SQL Server MVP Deep Dives: Highly Recommended
I didn't buy this book the day it came out because despite the fact that all 53 of the contributors are SQL Server MVPs (indeed some of the the world's leading experts and practitioners), I wondered if the fact that there were so many authors, it might mean the chapters would be just 'sound bites' with only a moderate amount of interesting content.

I could not have been more wrong! In fact, it is the complete opposite. Over the last 4 weeks, I've learnt something significant and useful each time I've picked this book up, either directly about SQL Server or one of the associated technologies. I challenge you to pick this book up, open it at random and read a couple of pages, and not learn something useful.

The blurb states "This is no ordinary SQL Server book" and it's not.There are insights and practical know-how that are the result of years of real-world experience working with SQL Server.

The book is divided into 5 sections, broadly divided into the 5 job roles based around SQL Server:

1. Database Design and Architecture
2. Database Development
3. Database Administration
4. Performance Tuning and Optimisation
5. BI Development

The 59 chapters cover material for newcomers and pros, developers and DBAs alike, including some of the new features of SQL Server 2008.

Purchasing the hard copy book, also gets you bonus access to a free pdf version of the book. [The authors of this book have donated 100% of their royalties to support War Child International]

An excellent book, and I'm glad I bought it. Highly recommended.

$12K for WarChild
On behalf of the 53 MVPs who collaberated on the SQL Server MVP Deep Dives book , I'm pleased to say thank you to the many who have purchased the book. Together we have raised $12,400 for [...].

If you haven't yet purchased the book, you should: no other tech book is such a win/win proposition. 100% of the author royalties goes helps children traumatized by war, you get 59 great chapters, and MVPs got to share their expertise in a collaborative effort.

[...].

[....].

Very good details on top of Your SQL server knowledge
When You try to learn something to a deeper level, a book like this is good to get.

Not trying to reach everything, but going the step extra on selected areas.

I for one appreciated this book.

Wow!
Wow!Actually this could be the whole review, but I guess it does need some elaboration.This book is bound to become a classic just like Ken England's book on performance of SQL 2000 used to be, or the Inside Microsoft SQL Server series is now.

It does not happen that often that I keep postponing all but the pressing task at work to read yet another chapter.Can someone be called an SQL addict?This book may well make you one. So I've tried to get to the bottom of it and understand what is it that they have done so right.It is not only that the book is written by people who know what they are writing about, and that they display the essence of various topics which most of us have accumulated only through reading many other sources.Here it is all distilled andpresented in one single volume of 59 chapters.But more than that, it seems that they have found the ultimate golden ratio in the size of the chapters, roughly between 8 to 13 pages, so that each can be covered in one short read without distraction. Almost like reading a collection of short stories by Edgar Allan Poe or William Somerset Maugham.

Have you ever spent time going through the 1204 trace flag deadlock graphs and then made the transition to the new trace flag 1222? Here it is, explained clearly without the need to go to BOL or the web. The benefits of a covering index?Which DMVs to use?Even the absurdity of using a shrink database task in a maintenance plan (why do they offer such a thing in the first place?). It is all here. The range of topics is impressive.

I have to admit I have not read more than a seventh of the book (only got it two days ago), jumping from one topic to another, having to balance what I am interested in most, and what would immediately be applicable to my current work, but even without a FULLSCAN there is little doubt that this volume will be enthusiastically received by developers and DBAs across the globe.
... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (8)

Very good if you want to learn MDX
I tried several other books on MDX, and for beginner, this is head and shoulders above the rest. There are some issues with installing samples from CD, but once you past that, it's a smooth sailing. I went through the book literally step by step, and it worked well for me.

Hard to beat
If you are a beginner to intermediate MDX person, then I can't think of any better book on the subject. Don't let the "step-by-step" label misguide you into believing this book is only for the beginners. This book covers from the simple to the complex MDX queries.

The book deals from the very basic "Select { } on columns, { } on rows from [Cube]" to using Expressions, Aggregation, and navigating the hierarchies. You will learn to use all MDX keywords, functions, and syntax structures.

I would not recommend this book as a first book on SQL BI (I like Brian Larson's "Delivering Business Intelligence"). Rather, this book should be an important supplement to anyone's SQL BI knowledge. Although SQL 2008 provides a handy GUI to build a MDX queries on an existing cube, it is not a good substitute for complex MDX queries. Trust me, when the pressure is on, and the senior management wants to get key information in a hurry, understanding MDX well can save you a lot of stress and reduce the blame game so prevalent in IT.

If you are never going to use MDX, I would question the need to build and process Cubes (also called Data Mart) all together. If you have a solidly designed Data Warehouse and a well functioning ETL process, you can just query the DW using SQL for most of the information you would need. But MDX releases the potential of the Cube and makes the entire SQL BI, and the Cube in particular, far more valuable and usable.

MDX is used across multiple Business Intelligence platforms. Even if you do not plan to exclusively use SQL BI, this book will help you to understand MDX that you can apply to, let's say, Microstrategy and SAS.

This book also comes with a CD that provides sample SQL BI Development Project and a corresponding Data Warehouse database.

If you want a well written, highly structured, and clear explanations of MDX from simple to complex, then this book is the right book for you.

opinion sobre sql server 2008 mdx
El libro es excelente, permite introducirse en el tema desde cero y llegar a un nivel intermedio-alto. Lo recomiendo a todo el que quiera adentrarse en este tema

Good for new learner
This book is good start for new learner. However, if u looking of optimization and very tricky situation, this may not suite you.

It's good to see a book on MDX from MS Press
It's SQL Server 2008 MDX Step by Step and it delivers what you need to get your teeth into MDX. In the way most Step by Step books from Microsoft Press do, but I probably wouldn't recommend the book to people already fluent with MDX. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (14)

One of the best!
This is one of the best books for SQL Server administration that I have read.It gives a great summary with good detail on most SQL Server DBA responsibilities.

SQL Server 2008 Administration In Action
This is the worse book I have ever seem.I never give out any rating before but I have to give rating on this book as I read through several chapters, I never learn one thing.Too bad that I wrote my name on front page otherwise, I want a full money back.The author is inexperience and cover stuffs already in previous version.People should not purchased this book unless you want to waste your Mon$ny.

A must read for all DBAs
I got a copy of this book back in September of 2009 because I wanted to know more about the hardware configuration of production database servers.Specifically, I wanted to know about best practices and recommendations in the areas of storage, memory and CPU.While at the store, I read chapter 2 "Storage and System Sizing" which covers from what SATA means to areas such as RAID, SAN, solid state drives, and best practice considerations. I purchased this book just for the content in chapter 2 and had zero expectations for the rest.

After reading the remainder of the book, I commend Rod College and the team behind this volume for their fantastic job.The material is accurate, current and invaluable to DBAs at any level. You'll get a wealth of information from new features found in MS SQL 2008 to concepts you should already know but you are not familiar with in MS SQL 2008.

The web site doesn't exist
I've had the book 3 days and I'm just getting into it.It states in the "about this book" section that there is a companion web page - [...] - where you can download the pdf version of the book.Well, the link no longer exists and Rod Colledge is not listed anywhere on the manning site.

[...] does exist, but I haven't had time to really look at it.

Fantastic resource for any SQL Server administrator!
I won this via attending a webcast but given the value of it I would easily have bought it myself. This book does a fantastic job covering everything you need to know about SQL Server administration in an easy, and quite frankly fun, way. Many times I've read technical books that are flat out boring but Rod's writing style makes this book feel fresh and engaging. I highly recommend picking this book up for yourself or even for your junior DBA's to have a fantastic go-to resource on how to accomplish and understand SQL Server. Well done Rod! ... Read more

Product Description

Beginning SQL Server 2008 Express for Developers: From Novice to Professional takes a developer, and even a DBA, from knowing nothing about SQL Server 2008 Express Edition to being ready to design and build a fully functioning system that is secure, reliable, maintainable, and robust. The Express Edition of SQL Server is a free resource commonly used by students, developers of small systems, and those transferring skills from other databases. This book focuses on the features within the Express Edition and therefore will not confuse readers with coverage of features found only in the Development Edition. By the end of the book, readers will be ready to move on to Accelerated SQL Server 2008 as well as other books within the Apress SQL Server lineup such as Pro SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services.

• Covers using the free Express Edition of SQL Server
• Describes creating a database from scratch and builds on this
• Provides an understanding of SQL Server Express 2008, allowing you to build future solutions for you and your business

Customer Reviews (5)

Great intro to SQL Server Express - 2008
I'm becomming increasingly impressed by the Apress series of technical books. This is another in a series that serves their purpose well.

Good for the beginner
I am not a developer so the title was misleading. While checking the index I saw the section on security and bought the book. I had a really tough time figuring this out on my own.We are developing a fairly simple asset db for our regional office hardware and software assets. We will be using an Access front end and SQL 2008 Express backend. We have six people accessing seven tables in various ways. Figuring out security for all of this was not easy for me. This book helped me a great deal. It appears that we don't even need to use db schemas as part of our security scenario. It was not clear in the book if schemas were necessary in all situations. I am using SSMS for all the administration. I have not done any of the exercises in the test environment, so I can't speak much on that part of the book.

Lacking Details
I realize this is a beginners' book and accept that technical depth wouldn't be appropriate; however, many examples of what to execute in the query window lack explanation as to what the lines mean. While at other points in the book, the author takes the time to do so. This doesn't aid in learning anything if you are simply entering what you see.

Additionally, there are numerous missed steps in the progression the author is taking you through. It's as if you skipped an entire paragraph because he makes sudden jumps as to where you should be.

Now, if this wasn't a beginners' book, it would be proper for an author to assume a certain level of knowledge but a beginners' book should not assume this. At first I accepted a few of these but I am now at the half-way point in the book and find it very irritating that gaps in how he arrived at where he is and the reasons he had me execute a particular SQL script is irritating. I bought the book to learn Why What and Where; not execute this and there you go, good luck.

sql management studio express
This bookprovides a great primer on how to use sql management studio express. Sql management studio is dedicated on how to use roles, schemas, tables, databases,ddl, dml. This bookshould be mandatoryfor any programmer or dba.

Great Start

A Great Book to learn SQL Server Express. Leaves nothing out and shows the right way. ... Read more

Product Description

Clare Churcher’s Beginning SQL Queries is your guide to mastering the lingua franca of the database industry: the SQL language. Good knowledge of SQL is crucial to anyone working with databases, because it is with SQL that you retrieve data, manipulate data, and generate business results. Knowing how to write good queries is the foundation for all work done in SQL, and it is a foundation that Clare lays well in her book.

• Does not bore with syntax!
• Helps you learn the underlying concepts involved in querying a database, and from there the syntax is easy
• Provides exceptionally clear examples and explanations
• Is academically sound while being practical and approachable

What you’ll learn

• Write simple queries to extract data from a single table.
• Understand relational algebra and calculus and why they are important.
• Combine data from many tables into one business result.
• Avoid pitfalls and traps such as Cartesian products and difficulties with null values.
• Summarize large amounts of data for reporting purposes.
• Apply set theory to the problems of manipulating data and generating reports.

Who is this book for?

Beginning SQL Queries is aimed at intelligent laypeople who need to extract information from a database, and at developers and other IT people who are new to SQL. The book is especially useful for business intelligence analysts who must ask more complex questions of their database than their GUI–based reporting software supports. Such people might be business owners wanting to target specific customers, scientists and students needing to extract subsets of their research data, or end users wanting to make the best use of databases for their clubs and societies.

About the Apress Beginning Series

The Beginning series from Apress is the right choice to get the information you need to land that crucial entry–level job. These books will teach you a standard and important technology from the ground up because they are explicitly designed to take you from “novice to professional.” You’ll start your journey by seeing what you need to know—but without needless theory and filler. You’ll build your skill set by learning how to put together real–world projects step by step. So whether your goal is your next career challenge or a new learning opportunity, the Beginning series from Apress will take you there—it is your trusted guide through unfamiliar territory!

Customer Reviews (5)

Solid start
Disclaimer: although I have had nothing to do with this book and I have never met the author (we live at the antipodes of each other), I was the technical reviewer for her previous book - and I am the author of two SQL books, none of them for beginners.

Knowing Clare's style, I have been extremely surprised by some of the reviews of this book, which are rather harsh. I got a copy of "Beginning SQL Queries", and read it to have an opinion of my own.
Several reviewers complain about the references to algebra and calculus; I think they have missed Clare's point, which was to show that there are two writing styles with SQL. She could have called them style A and style B, but unfortunately she is rather precise in what she writes and chose to call them by their received names of algebra and calculus, which I agree are dirty names. Which one is algebra and which one is calculus is usually something I forget very fast, and I've practiced SQL for a quarter of a century; believe me, you can use both styles without knowing their names.
I also take objection to one reviewer's comment that "it is clear the author doesn't actually understand SQL. A table alias is not a 'row variable'". Perhaps Clare didn't make her point clear enough; but when you write a correlated subquery, as in

select ...
from ta outer
where exists
(select 1
from tb inner
where inner.id = outer.id)

"outer" (the table alias) in the subquery actually refers to the current row from the outer query. Perhaps an unusual way to introduce the topic; but I have always believed that the goal of a book should be to intellectually challenge the reader and bring him or her to see the topic in a different light.

All this being said, I'm not convinced by some aspects of the book. For one thing, if the author actually starts from the "novice" stage, she doesn't really bring the reader to the "professional" stage in my humble opinion; the coverage of topics like indexing is light, and none of the examples is even remotely as complex as what I routinely encounter. This makes the introduction (fortunately discrete) of formal notations look like an overkill with no real added value. Better to concentrate on the figures, which are extremely clear.

If you just wish to make some quick and dirty SQL job, "Beginning SQL Queries" is probably not a book for you - I guess that any tutorial on the web and a bit of trial and error will get you started. You won't go very far, but sometimes you don't want to.
I rather see this book as a good bridge between college and the professional world - it combines the rigor of text books (although it doesn't theorize, all the key points from the theory are here) with the conversational tone of books that are aimed at the professional world; strictly correct without being dry. It will not turn you into a full-blown database professional, but if what you have seen - or not seen - at school is hazy and if you are serious about ensuring that you have sound foundations, reading "Beginning SQL Queries" is a good way to start.

Horrible Beginner book
One of my students bought this book to help them learn SQL.This is a horribly intimidating book for a beginner.It should be titled "Beginning SQL for Physics Doctorate Students".

First of all, SQL is not rocket science.Introducing calculus concepts (within the first 20 pages) as a way of making SQL more accessible is ridiculous.Second, it is clear the author doesn't actually understand SQL.A table alias is not a "row variable" - it is a table alias!

Clearly the author had to write a book to help the publisher recoup prior advances.Apress is one of my favorite computer book publishers and I was extremely disappointed that they published this book.

If you are looking for a good introduction to SQL, Que's Using SQL is still the best, although it is out of print.

Algebra and Calculus?
Wordy and obtuse.Typical PhD attempt at a user manual.
If you're a novice, it'll confuse you more than necessary; if you already know SQL, it'll bore you more than necessary.

Another great book by Clare Churcher
Last year I read and reviewed Clare Churcher's excellent little introduction to database design. Although I learnt enough SQL at the time to write working queries, I could not resist picking up this book when I recently saw it. And true to form, Clare Churcher has written another gem. What I particularly like about the style is that all examples are kept simple while conveying important concepts.
Two different ways to approach a query are introduced in the book, the "algebra" or "how-approach" and the "calculus" or "what-approach". Why two approaches? According to the book, student classes are equally divided in which approach they prefer. With two approaches to choose from there is a greater chance that anyone reading this book will find it useful. I'm personally greatly helped by the "what-approach" in reviewing old SQL code as well as writing new queries.
This book is a must for anyone learning SQL for the first time. In addition, it provides a refreshing new way of looking at SQL code for those who already know the basics.

Perfect little problem solver
I'm a computer-savy first time SQL'er. I found this book to provide a quick and complete introduction to SQL that allowed me to straight away get going.It's written from a practical stand point which is really useful if you're like me and just want to get the job done.

I also like the way book tackles the subject from two different angles - she calls it the Algebra or Calculus angles.Sounds mathematical but it simply means that when you're got a complicated problem you've got twice the chance of finding a solution.

This book comes totally recommended.I became quite intrigued by the stuff about how you should design your database right that I'm now reading her book on Database Design. ... Read more

Product Description

Get Started on Microsoft SQL Server 2008 in No Time

Learn to use all of the powerful features available in SQL Server 2008 quickly and easily. Microsoft SQL Server 2008: A Beginner's Guide explains the fundamentals of each topic alongside examples and tutorials that walk you through real-world database tasks. Install SQL Server 2008, construct high-performance databases, use powerful Transact-SQL statements, create stored procedures and triggers, and execute simple and complex database queries. Performance tuning, Database Engine security, Business Intelligence, and XML are also covered.     

• Set up, configure, and maintain SQL Server 2008
• Build and manage database objects using Transact-SQL statements
• Create stored procedures and user-defined functions
• Optimize database performance, availability, and reliability
• Implement solid security using authentication, encryption, and authorization
• Automate tasks using SQL Server Agent
• Create reliable data backups and perform flawless system restores
• Use all-new SQL Server 2008 Business Intelligence, development, and administration tools
• Learn in detail the SQL Server XML technology (SQLXML)

Customer Reviews (7)

Good introduction
The book focuses on Microsoft SQL Server. It occasionally points out a solution that exists under MS SQL server and not under the ANSI SQL standard.

A small practice database is presented. It is small enough for the reader to key in. It allows the lessons to be experienced hands on.

The examples are generally error free.

Every chapter presents a quiz like set of brief challenges to help the reader practice the previous lessons.

The text can be wordy, but not as wordy as many Microsoft Press books.

Very good book for beginners
This is a very good book for a beginners...It clearly explains the concepts and have enough excersise to practice. I haven't finished the whole book yet, however, so far I liked it...Thanks,

microsoft sql server 2008 a beginners guide
I have not had the opportunity to sit down and read the material. I was satisfied with the condition.

Excellent Work!
Mr Petkovic approaches his writing like a skilled and gifted artisan who is confident and has a complete understanding of a very complex subject (SQL Server).
Our IT group has used his books in preference to those from Microsoft Press and others for several versions.
His chapter layout and content is concise and clear, which is helpful when you need a "Quick Win" on syntax of some related operational question.
As always we rate his work with five stars.

The title is very accurate
If you are new to Microsoft SQL Server and relational databases or have been away from the technology for a while, this book will be very helpful.The author takes time upfront to start you off with the basics of SQL and work his way through most of the functionality in the current version of SQL Server.The examples are simple to understand.I do wish there had been more info on the Spatial Data Types, but that is probably because I am not a beginner on that subject and wanted to dive into more GIS analysis than this book was ready to provide. ... Read more

Product Description
Microsoft's Reporting Services product is a vital part of the SQL Server 2005 business intelligence platform, but it works with virtually any data source. This hands-on guide explains how to transform data into insightful and interactive Web-based reports using Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services. With coverage of everything from installation to administration, the book demonstrates how to use this powerful server-based reporting solution to improve business decision-making and facilitate company-wide -- even worldwide -- communication. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (52)

Good Book
This book had very good material and provide excellent examples on a step by step basis for SSRS 2005. I was hired to do reporting and SSRS was the tool that my employer uses. Never used SSRS before, but reading through the book and examples provided me with a good basic foundation for using and creating reports in SSRS. This book has materials that you download from the publisher's site, but I was unable to install the Galactic database, which is the database that allows you to complete and work through the lessons. Given this fact I decided to just read/skim through the books and the lessons. Unfortunately not being able to work through the lessons and examples in SSRS did not allow me to maximize my learning experience. I recommend before you buy this book if you can get the database installed first since it is free from the publisher's website, you will then know for sure if you will be able to get some hands on training.

Good in depth reference for SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services
This is a good in depth reference for SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services. It is a little more difficult to find specific information bacuase it has so much information. But the clarity of the writing and the sheer volume of information in this book make it well worth having available as a reference. Just keep in mind that at around 750 pages, this is not going to be a quick read.

This review is to help readers find sample required Galactic database for download.
Galactic database for download location.

Googling the Internet and reading posted reviews indicates that many people having problem find download of the "Galactic" database.That database author is using in study exercises in this book.On page 116 author provide link to the site for database download. As of today the database is not there.

I would recommend you download the Galactic database and MS Word installation manual before buying this book and complete installation required.

I found the download googlling on keyword "Download McGraw-Hill".Then from the search page result you must select item-

<<<<<
McGraw-Hill Professional - 4:01pm
You can download Oracle Press related source code from the ....
>>>>>

That site provides list of many downloads available for McGraw-Hill.For this book you need item "Microsoft SQL Server 2005 Reporting Services".

The download is in Win.Zip format chapters for the book and the "Galactic" database zip file is included. The Galactic database is in "sql" script format.It will require special installation using SQL Server. For the Galactic database installation all needed files and MS Word installation manual is included.

At this point in time I'm giving that book preliminary 4 stars just for difficulties with required sample database download.

I second that! Exceptional Clarity and useful examples
I have a lot of SQL Server experience and am an MCP in Sql Server 2000. I have purchased and used 3 books on SSRS.A quick intro type book, this book, and a "pro" book for SSRS 2008.The quick intro was fine but for depth and "step by step" instructions on the common reporting requirements-sorting,grouping,parameterization, etc. this book is EXCELLENT.

The really great thing about it is that the step by step instructions for each reporting function for each example ACTUALLY WORK! Not every programming book you will buy will have that quality.For example, the "pro" SSRS 2008 book I purchased has numerous flaws in the examples that are frustrating and slow the learning pace to a crawl.Sure, when the reviewers complained about that book, that author responded that he will answer all questions if you email him.But who wants to wait days every time they try another example for a correction to the text???

This book actually WORKS! and because the examples work on the first try without errors, you will learn FAST.

good information
This helped me with a special project that I was working on.There is a lot information that I skipped over because I didn't have time to read the whole thing.I did find most of what I was looking for in order to complete my project.
... Read more

Product Description

A Fully Integrated Study System for OCA Exam 1Z0-051

Prepare for the Oracle Certified Associate Oracle Database 11g: SQL Fundamentals I exam with help from this exclusive Oracle Press guide. In each chapter, you'll find challenging exercises, practice questions, a two-minute drill, and a chapter summary to highlight what you've learned. This authoritative guide will help you pass the test and serve as your essential on-the-job reference. Get complete coverage of all OCA objectives for exam 1Z0-051, including:

• SQL SELECT statements
• Restricting and sorting data
• Single-row functions
• Conversion functions and conditional expressions
• Group functions
• Displaying data from multiple tables
• Subqueries
• Set operators
• DML and DDL statements
• Schema objects

On the CD-ROM:

• One full practice exam that simulates the actual OCA exam
• Detailed answers and explanations
• Score report performance assessment tool
• Complete electronic book
• Bonus exam available free with online registration

Customer Reviews (12)

Very basic.
This book is an Introduction to SQL level book. If you know SQL a little bit, you will get very little out of this book. The chapters don't go into detail and the questions seem to be dumbed down - they don't look like realistic certification exam questions. Although it is not a certification book, if you would like to learn Oracle SQL I recommend Oracle SQL by Example (by Alice Rischert). This is one of the best book on Oracle SQL and you will learn a lot from it - not just superficial certification SQL.

Fair Study Guide for Exam, Lacking Depth
I purchased this book in preparation for the Oracle Database 11g SQL Fundamentals 1 Exam.While the breadth of the material is good as it covers every topic on the exam, the presented examples are extremely simplified and often present a concept in its most basic form.In addition, the exercise questions at the end of each chapter are much too simplified.I downloaded a practice exam from Transcender and was amazed at the difference in complexity between the questions and exams provided by the book and those from Transcender.If you are taking the exam, the questions in the book as well as the exams will not fully prepare you for the exam.I highly recommend purchasing additional practice exams from Transcender; they have the look and feel of actual Oracle exam questions.I did find the study text in this book extremely useful and would recommend it in conjunction with some other study aid.

Riddled with errors, sample questionstoo simple
This book is almost useless. Namely, it is riddled with errors, doesn't cover all the exam topics, examples are way to easy in comparison with the actual test and the 2 sample tests are easy too.
I just took the online exam and passed. However:
- most of the questions were about complex SQL statements, mostly joins and subqueries
- the online test has a serious problem: namely, the question and the proposed answers are displayed in one tab
and the table structures and tabel data are displayed in a second tab. Now the catch: the tabs can't be viewed simultaneously. This is a major problem since you have to switch back and forth between the tabs and you forget either the exhibit or the question and the given answers.

I easily scored over 95% on the practice tests (from this book and other sample tests) and barely got 75% on the real test. On a final note, I do have several years of hands-on SQL experience.

This is nice book
This is nice book . I was looking for a book that specifically contained info on SQL*Plus syntax and a bit of SQL.
The books does cover some SQL and it does cover SQL*Plus, but it never goes into any real depth on either topics. I love real world examples that I can actually refer back to and use on the job.

Excellent
This is an excellent book for passing 1Z0-051 exam. It covers all topics with good explanations and exercises to practice your understanding. It is also a good SQL reference. ... Read more

Product Description
If you’re in charge of database administration, developing database software, or looking for database solutions for your company, Microsoft SQL Server 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies can help you get a handle on this extremely popular relational database management system. Here you’ll find what’s new in the latest version; how to choose and install the right variation for your needs; how to monitor, maintain, and protect your data; and what it takes to keep your database healthy. You’ll discover how to:

• Build and maintain tables
• Design a database and communicate with it
• Retrieve, analyze, and report data
• Build solid, robust database applications
• Use the SQL Server Optimizer and Query Designer
• Navigate SQL Server with Visual Studio
• Develop useful reports with the Report Builder and Report Designer
• Create Business Intelligence solutions with Business Intelligence Development Studio
• Configure your server and perform major administrative tasks

To help you quickly find what you need, Microsoft SQL Server 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies is divided into nine minibooks:

• Essential Concepts
• Designing and Using Databases
• Interacting With Your Data
• Database Programming
• Reporting Services
• Analysis Services
• Performance Tips and Tricks
• Database Administration
• Appendixes

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 All-In-One Desk Reference For Dummies gets you started, helps you solve problems, and will even answer your questions down the road! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Very interesting
this has been a great help using SQL server 2008, I'm still going through the book and learning more each time i use this book

All in all A great book to have.
I bought this book from Barnes and Noble because I could not wait. To my delight I found this book to be well written in a lucid style. This book, mercifully, leaves out the BS that clutter most computer books. On the first day I was able to install the MS SQL server - beware it is not that simple! It is very easy to miss the Full Text search and the Filestream install.

I would have been lost if I had only this book to teach me SQL. However, I had somebackground in SQL, imparted by the Head First SQL book, and the famous Ben Forta SQL book.

I will suggest that you get your feet wet by the HeadFirst SQL book. Surely, it will be money well spent because learning SQl from this Dummy book will be difficult. SQL is a language which needs time and effort, and this book spends only a fraction of pages teaching SQL.Having said that, the fraction of pages is very well written.

Before I discovered MS SQL Server I was using MySQL programs to write queries, programs like MySQL query browser, Navicat and SQLYOG.MS Sql Server, on the other hand, was a Eureka moment, for example, among other things, the query builder is phenomenal. It will help you get results from multiple tables in a few minutes as compared to writing code (although you must know how to write SQL code for fine tuning the queries. Besides, writing SQl code is not that difficult, thanks to Head First and Ben Forta books).

The current Dummies book 'Microsoft SQl server 2008' is a breath of fresh air. Many a times it gave me insights into the SQL language which made things simpler.
IMHO, if you are a beginner, you MUST start with Head First SQL AND Ben Forta SQL books before you plunge into this book, but this book won't disappoint you, in fact you will be able to write a working DB.
All in all, a great book to have in your library - a good resource and a good friend. Highly recommended.

M Khan ... Read more

Product Description

This latest edition of the best-selling implementation guide to the Structured Query Language teaches SQL fundamentals while providing practical solutions for critical business applications. The Practical SQL Handbook, Fourth Edition now includes expanded platform SQL coverage and extensive real-world examples based on feedback from actual SQL users.

The Practical SQL Handbook begins with a step-by-step introduction to SQL basics and examines the issues involved in designing SQL-based database applications. It fully explores SQL’s most popular implementations from industry leaders, Oracle, Microsoft, Sybase, and Informix.

Highlights include:

• Detailed coverage of SQL commands for creating databases, tables, and indexes, and for
• adding, changing, and deleting data
• Using the SELECT command to retrieve specific data
• Handling NULL values (missing information) in a relational database
• Joining tables, including self joins and outer joins (ANSI and WHERE-clause syntax)
• Working with nested queries (subqueries) to get data from multiple tables
• Creating views (virtual tables) to provide customized access to data
• Using SQL functions

A bonus CD-ROM contains a time-limited, full-feature version of the Sybase® Adaptive Server Anywhere™ software as well as the sample database, scripts, and examples included in the book.

The Practical SQL Handbook is the most complete reference available for day-to-day SQL implementations.

Customer Reviews (11)

Great reference book for a novice!
Our lead DBA told me about this book (an earlier edition) and I bought it over a year ago. Up until Feb. 2006, I had no idea what SQL was. As a tech lover and "sponge of knowledge", I saw a need at my job to take over the ad-hoc report requests that burdened our DBAs. With teachings from them and a 2 day training class I embarked on my query writing adventure. 1.5 years later, I have learned a great deal and use this book about 1x/week! I do not do any programming (I'm a tech analyst) so this book is great for explaining 1) what the command means and 2) how to write it. I work in both Oracle and MySQL and have found that this book pretty much applies to both worlds. My only complaint (and this is SO small) is that sometimes I have very specific questions, like how to limit the row output, and the glossary in the back of the book is not that specific. Other than that, for someone without a programming or DBA background, I LOVE this book! I have even let other analysts in different depts. use it and they have found it helpful as well.

The Practical SQL Handbook:Using SQL Variants
Good book for beginners.Actually it is the required book for an Online class I am taking and works well.

Excellent
The book was shipped quickly and packaged well. It was in the condition described. I will buy from them again.

Great depth of content, easy reading, not overboard but everything you need!
The best SQL book I've found so far. This is really just an update of "The Practical SQL Handbook" and that's a good thing. These authors do a marvelous job of explaining how to accomplish things with SQL without getting too deep. The writing is at a conversational level ... like you are speaking with a co-worker.
I think the organization of the book makes sense and have had no problems finding answers while jumping around the chapters.
This book has been around for many years (This is the fourth edition) and I can understand why. It is probably all you will ever need.
I also bought "SQL Queries for Mere Mortals". I haven't spent much time with it yet but it seems to be more a textbook to "rev up your SQL with hot licks" in its approach and not as much of a general purpose book like the "Practical SQL Handbook". I think the two of them cover my needs completely.

Good book, explains differences when necessary.
Does a good job of explaining SQL from the basic stuff up to highly complex queries. Goes into detail whenever necessary to explain the differences between an implementation in Oracle, SQL Server, mySQL, etc. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description

This latest edition of the best-selling implementation guide to the Structured Query Language teaches SQL fundamentals while providing practical solutions for critical business applications. The Practical SQL Handbook, Fourth Edition now includes expanded platform SQL coverage and extensive real-world examples based on feedback from actual SQL users.

The Practical SQL Handbook begins with a step-by-step introduction to SQL basics and examines the issues involved in designing SQL-based database applications. It fully explores SQL’s most popular implementations from industry leaders, Oracle, Microsoft, Sybase, and Informix.

Highlights include:

• Detailed coverage of SQL commands for creating databases, tables, and indexes, and for
• adding, changing, and deleting data
• Using the SELECT command to retrieve specific data
• Handling NULL values (missing information) in a relational database
• Joining tables, including self joins and outer joins (ANSI and WHERE-clause syntax)
• Working with nested queries (subqueries) to get data from multiple tables
• Creating views (virtual tables) to provide customized access to data
• Using SQL functions

A bonus CD-ROM contains a time-limited, full-feature version of the Sybase® Adaptive Server Anywhere™ software as well as the sample database, scripts, and examples included in the book.

The Practical SQL Handbook is the most complete reference available for day-to-day SQL implementations.

Customer Reviews (11)

Great reference book for a novice!
Our lead DBA told me about this book (an earlier edition) and I bought it over a year ago. Up until Feb. 2006, I had no idea what SQL was. As a tech lover and "sponge of knowledge", I saw a need at my job to take over the ad-hoc report requests that burdened our DBAs. With teachings from them and a 2 day training class I embarked on my query writing adventure. 1.5 years later, I have learned a great deal and use this book about 1x/week! I do not do any programming (I'm a tech analyst) so this book is great for explaining 1) what the command means and 2) how to write it. I work in both Oracle and MySQL and have found that this book pretty much applies to both worlds. My only complaint (and this is SO small) is that sometimes I have very specific questions, like how to limit the row output, and the glossary in the back of the book is not that specific. Other than that, for someone without a programming or DBA background, I LOVE this book! I have even let other analysts in different depts. use it and they have found it helpful as well.

The Practical SQL Handbook:Using SQL Variants
Good book for beginners.Actually it is the required book for an Online class I am taking and works well.

Excellent
The book was shipped quickly and packaged well. It was in the condition described. I will buy from them again.

Great depth of content, easy reading, not overboard but everything you need!
The best SQL book I've found so far. This is really just an update of "The Practical SQL Handbook" and that's a good thing. These authors do a marvelous job of explaining how to accomplish things with SQL without getting too deep. The writing is at a conversational level ... like you are speaking with a co-worker.
I think the organization of the book makes sense and have had no problems finding answers while jumping around the chapters.
This book has been around for many years (This is the fourth edition) and I can understand why. It is probably all you will ever need.
I also bought "SQL Queries for Mere Mortals". I haven't spent much time with it yet but it seems to be more a textbook to "rev up your SQL with hot licks" in its approach and not as much of a general purpose book like the "Practical SQL Handbook". I think the two of them cover my needs completely.

Good book, explains differences when necessary.
Does a good job of explaining SQL from the basic stuff up to highly complex queries. Goes into detail whenever necessary to explain the differences between an implementation in Oracle, SQL Server, mySQL, etc. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Product Description

SQL Server 2008 is a first–rate database management system. It offers more capability than any previous release of SQL Server. More than just a classic relational database management system, SQL Server 2008 includes exciting and powerful features that make it useful for everything from large corporate data warehouses to ad hoc departmental databases. You’ll find enhanced support for XML, new support for spatial data, transparent data encryption, a policy–based management system, and more.

Author and developer Robin Dewson will show you the way from beginner to SQL Server 2008 professional. Learn to install SQL Server 2008 and navigate around Management Studio before getting right to the heart of mastering fundamental SQL Server 2008 tasks: creating tables, storing data, securing data, and retrieving it again. Dewson ensures you’ll be fully prepared to use all the basics and create a solid foundation for your own projects.

Don’t forget about backups! Your database will house important data, so backing up is essential to protect yourself from inevitable hardware failure. Dewson walks you through SQL Server 2008’s easy–to–use backup and recovery feature set, giving you the grounding that you need in order to set up a reliable plan for recovery in your own environment.

Learn to use Transact–SQL, a full–blown procedural language that is built right into the database system. Transact–SQL is the key to unlocking everything that SQL Server 2008 has to offer. Using Transact–SQL, you can write centrally encapsulated business logic through the use of stored procedures, automatically trigger processing through the use of triggers, and manipulate data within the server without having to move data back and forth across the network.

Finally, you’ll learn a bit about SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services, a powerful tool that allows enterprise reporting. Reporting Services enables you to develop and serve reports across your organization and even to business partners outside your company. Reporting Services also gives end users the ability to create their own reports, helping them transform business data into valuable, usable information to guide their day–to–day decisions.

What you’ll learn

• Install and manage SQL Server on your system.
• Create and secure tables.
• Store and query data; use indexes to improve query performance.
• “Sleep when the wind blows,” because you have a solid backup and recovery process.
• Run procedural code inside your database in the form of Transact–SQL procedures and triggers.
• Serve up business reports to in–house users and outside business partners via SQL Server 2008 Reporting Services.

Customer Reviews (13)

Seems like good content, typeface size is way too small.
Maybe it's just me, but it looks like the font size in this book is about a 9 ?

The examples got even smaller (8 ?) and printed in a weird font that makes the text look smashed together.
Wish I could have kept it, but I'm not going to kill my eyes.The search is on for another book.

Definitely a BEGINNERS book
I just got this book a few days ago, so haven't read too much of it yet. However, I thought I'd post this to help those confused as to who the target audience is, as evidenced by some of the poorer reviews. This is a book for SQL 2008 *beginners* -- make no mistake. I think the "...to Professionals" portion of the title is misleading. Here are some quotes:

From Amazon's official Product Description:
"Who is this book for? Developers new to SQL Server 2008."

It even says this is from the "Apress Beginning Series."

From the book's "Who This Book is For" section:
"This book is ideal for developers starting out with SQL Server 2008 or for those looking at becoming database administrators."

From the book's Overview section in Chapter 1:
"Welcome to Beginning SQL Server 2008 for Developers. This book has been written for those who are interested in learning how to create solutions with Microsoft SQL Server 2008, but have no prior knowledge of SQL Server 2008."

"The aim of this book is to bring you quickly up to a level at which you are developing competently with SQL Server 2008. This book is specifically dedicated to beginners and to those who at this stage wish to use only SQL Server 2008."

Bottom line, if you are already knowledgeable on SQL 2008, you are going to learn very little in this book. If you are new to the whole process, from what I can tell so far, it's a great starting point.

Worse book ever
I read through a few chapters patiently and still didn't see anything about coding.It's more like an introduction to System DBA (and not a good one either.)This book includes so many things, but none of them detailed enough at all.Then when I read the part that OLTP should have MANY indexes and OLAP shouldn't, I almost stopped reading this book.But I told myself I should give it a chance and at least read the part for developers.Nope, I learned nothing new.So disappointed!What a waste of my time and money!

sql 2008 a great primer
Unfortunately, their are not too many introductory sql books that do not even give very much information at all on how to create databases, tables, t-sql, dml, ddl the right way in sql management studio.
This book answers the biggest question on how to use sql management studio toolscorrectly.....
how manydifferent ways can I create a table in sql management studio??? Why are roles important? Creating schemas?How can I create a table than apply t-sql??? How can I protect t-sql thru DDL??

This foundational book(which should be renamed sql server 2008 management studio)which should be mandatory for every sql developer or dba. This book makes me want to learn more about the sqlbusiness intelligence management studio. The sad truth is that alot of t-sql books assume a person knows how to create a table and then apply
sql.This book starts from the beginning and shows you various ways to create a table by creating roles or schemas and then apply t-sql and then apply ddl to help you protect the data.
If you want to learn advanced functions of business intelligence studio, reporting services, t-sql, ddl, dml
studio than you should learn this book and then move into those advanced topics....

Doesn't even cover replication
I'm a tech manual junkie and have several favorite authors (Mark Minasi and Virginia Andersen to name a couple).Seeing as my "regulars" haven't written any books on SQL Server, I tried out this one by Robin Dewson.From the first couple pages of this book, I was afraid I had made a poor purchase.About 1/3 the way in I decided to return it and get a different book on SQL Server.The grammar is convoluted and just plain improper in some places - always a red flag.As an example of poor grammar, here is an actual sentence: "This is where having a constraint defined will ensure that unique values can only be entered into columns defined within the constraint."That is the first sentence of a paragraph.What is "This"???I found myself having to read certain paragraphs over and over before granting myself that it was not just that I couldn't understand the concept of what was being presented, but that the writing was too poor to be understood.

When I finally gave up on trying to read the book front to back, I decided to just jump to the section that I mainly purchased the book for: to understand replication.However, when I looked up "replication" in the index, it wasn't even there!The book says "from Novice to Professional". So why is replication not even touched on?I'm very disappointed.And I need to understand replication by next week, so now I have to run up to the local bookstore and get a new book. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (18)

good info, but needs an editor
The information content is very good, but it's hard to read.As another reviewer said, it does seem like it was rushed out the door before a proofreader/editor could look at it.If someone did, then that person needed grammar lessons and better attention to detail.I often found the grammar distracting enough that I missed the meaning of the sentence/paragraph.That caused me to have to re-read a lot of things, and slowed down my progress.

5 stars for content.2 stars for writing.Average:3.5 stars.

Good resource for integrating and extending SSRS 2008
A terrific book about SSRS 2008. I bought it a few months ago and it helped me a lot in finding solutions for integrating SSRS 2008 in other software products. Clear written. Good examples. When you have to integrate or extend SSRS according your own requirements, this book is definitely a must read!

Great Book
This book offers two things which set it apart from the competition:1) Has videos which accompany it that are excellent examples of how to use SSRS, 2) very comprehensive coverage of the topic.Excellent buy!

Good book; but, not for the beginner. Excellent author support.
I found the book interesting and informative; but, a bit too complex for the beginner. I made it through about half the book and completed the exercises; but, it was a struggle. I finally switched to a different book that suited me better. The best part of the book is the support given by the author. He has a forum for the book and answered my many questions often within hours. His help was instrumental to getting me through as much of the book as I did. I plan on finishing the other half of the book after I've completed a more basic one.

Practical Approach
Teo drills down into the nitty gritty which some other books on SSRS can leave behind (or address at too high a level not useful to real-world developers). Case in point, chapter 5 presents a solid understanding of the new tablix region with step-by-step walkthroughs where needed (implementing grouping can be a little confusing at first if you're used to other tools like MS Access). As a seasoned developer, I found many little tips and tricks which another book I just finished on the subject didn't even begin to cover.

Teo understands what developers need and what they don't. Some of us don't have a lot of time to spend experimenting with a new tool or a new version. His explanations and examples cut to the chase and left me feeling confident in my ability to put the information to use. The videos on his website are a great compliment to the text. I recommend them both. ... Read more

Product Description

As the foundation of the Microsoft Business Intelligence Strategy, Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Analysis Services provides users with faster access to data and even more tools for managing and analyzing data across multidimensional objects (databases, dimensions, cubes).

Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Analysis Services Unleashed is the ultimate guide for anyone who is planning to use the latest version of Analysis Services. It gives readers insight into the way Analysis Services functions, and explains practical methods for designing and creating multidimensional objects. It also provides valuable insight into the reasons behind the design decisions taken by the product development team. The authors have been involved with Analysis Services from its earliest days. They have documented in detail the internal features of Analysis Services 2008, explaining server architecture, main data structures, data processing, and query resolution algorithms.

• Discover the new functionality introduced in Analysis Services 2008 including MDX enhancements and new DMV (dynamic memory views)
• Work with the Business Intelligence Development Studio, the new Dimension Editor, and Aggregation Designer interfaces
• Enjoy complete coverage of new Shared Scalable Databases scale-out infrastructure
• Learn the key concepts of multidimensional modeling
• Explore the multidimensional object model and its definition language
• Integrate multidimensional and relational databases
• Build client applications to access data in Analysis Services
• Unravel the inner workings of the server architecture, including main data structures, data processing, and query resolution algorithms
• Learn the main concepts of the MDX language and gain an in-depth understanding of advanced MDX concepts
• Gain a deeper understanding of the internal and external protocols for data transfer, including the XML/A protocol
• Discover how Analysis Services manages memory
• Explore the security model, including role-based security, code-access security, and data security

Category: Microsoft SQL Server

Covers: Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Analysis Services

User Level: Intermediate-Advanced

$59.99  USA / $65.99 CAN / £38.99 Net UK±

Customer Reviews (9)

Don't buy this book!
Through the first 3 chapters I felt like the book may have some promise. True, the brief overviews didn't really pertain to any major aspects of Analysis Services, but it was interesting to learn the background of the product.

Once I got to chapters 4, 5 and 6 I almost fell asleep. The author tries to explain multidimensional cubes with no real foresight into how this applies to Analysis Services. I found myself completely confused as to what was trying to be explained. My background is mainly in RDBMS, but I have enough experience with multidimensional databases to understand the core concepts. However, I am still trying to figure out what those chapters were about.

I agree with the other commenter who mentioned that this book is completely difficult to read and I say that it is not worth buying.

Hands down .... the best book on Analysis services
I found this book to be extremely informative. I have read many other books on SSAS and I found that this book can tell you a lot about how SSAS really works. It also have an very wide and excellent coverage of topics which are seldom even discussed in many other SSAS books.

Mind you that if you are a newbie this may be a bit too overwhelming. However if you know the subject and want more detailed knowledge on inner workings of SSAS, then this book is a MUST READ.

Don't be too bothered about reviews on Amazon which say that this contains lot of XML based samples.... The XML samples are required, because the show how to use XMLA (Xml for Analysis Services).

All in all, this is the best book written on the subject.

Great Book for Deep Thinker and Advanced Users
For those of you who want to be the best at what you do, this book will get you there in a hurry.I am a professional consultant (MCS) with microsoft and I know the caliber of the authors (the most knowledgeable product people who built SSAS) and recognize the beginner book from the most advanced book.This is at the far right end of most advanced book.If you are beginner who hates XMLA, then please go get book for dummies or something and stop whining about advanced features showing here. I use this book for my reference as well as a deep understanding of the product internal.For those of you actually use MSFT BI product to build something useful and professional, this is the book for you.For those of you who are new and who cannot read very well, please find the dummies books, as those are for you.

Waste of money!
It's very appalling to see writers that claim to have worked on the product but could not give clear and accurate examples of any topics discussed. Waste of money from my perspective.

Wait for other SSAS 2008
I have thousands of hours of experience with SSAS 2000 and 2005.I think that SSAS is one of the best (if unappreciated) Microsoft products.

I bought this book for one reason - it was the first one available.If you need one now, then get it.But be warned that it's not particularly good.

The key problem is that the authors are fascinated with XML. They use raw XML to explain a wide variety of concepts and tasks.For the authors and publishers, it has the benefit of wasting a lot of space.This fattens the book and makes it look like you are getting more for your money.

Unfortunately for the readers, the book is difficult to read and completely misses the point of the SSAS interface.XML is the underlying metadata structure of SSAS.That is the last place you should look to understand cube and dimensional structure, or for modifying how the cube works.

For a professional programmer (me), time is money and productivity is everything. First you should should use the graphical and tabular representation of metadata to manipulate the cubes and dimension.THEN, you write MDX functions when necessary. If all else fails, mess with the XML.

If you can wait a few weeks, there are two new books coming out for AS 2008.I believe either would a much better alternative to this book.

Don't waste your money buying this book like I did.

Regards,

Dan. ... Read more

Product Description
The ideal on-the-job reference guide for SQL Server 2008 database administrators

If you manage and administer SQL Server 2008 in the real world, you need this detailed guide at your desk. From planning to disaster recovery, this practical book explores tasks and scenarios that a working SQL Server DBA faces regularly and shows you step by step how to handle them. Topics include installation and configuration, creating databases and tables, optimizing the database server, planning for high availability, and more.

And, if you're preparing for MCTS or MCITP certification in SQL Server 2008 administration, this book is the perfect supplement to your preparation, featuring a CD with practice exams, flashcards, and video walkthroughs of the more difficult administrative tasks

• Delves into Microsoft's SQL Server 2008, a rich set of enterprise-level database services for business-critical applications
• Explores the skills you'll need on the job as a SQL Server 2008 administrator
• Shows you how to implement, maintain, and repair the SQL Server database, including bonus videos on the CD where the authors walks you through the more difficult tasks
• Covers database design, installation and configuration, creating databases and tables, security, backup and high availability, and more
• Supplements your preparation for MCTS and MCITP SQL Server 2008 certification with in-depth coverage of the skill sets required for certification, as defined by Microsoft
• Uses hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios to keep what you're learning grounded in the reality of the workplace

Make sure you're not only prepared for certification, but also for your job as a SQL Server 2008 administrator, with this practical reference!

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Well written SQL book
As the book's title implies - this is written with real-world skills in focus, rather than just a focus on passing the exams. After reading the entire book cover-to-cover, I would agree that statement.

This book was an excellent resource for SQL Server 2008 knowledge, and provides helpful and practical information that is useful on the job. The book was also well written and easy to follow.

As for an exam prep book, it falls short of completely preparing you for the 70-432 and 70-450 exams. In order to pass both of these exams, I still needed to study a variety of cram resources and practice tests to prepare for the exams. This is a great book if you need to take these exams, but keep in mind that this should not be your only study resource.

... Read more

Product Description
Extend your programming skills with a comprehensive study of the key features of SQL Server 2008. Delve into the new core capabilities, get practical guidance from expert developers, and put their code samples to work. This is a must-read for Microsoft .NET and SQL Server developers who work with data access—at the database, business logic, or presentation levels.Discover how to:Query complex data with powerful Transact-SQL enhancementsUse new, non-relational features: hierarchical tables, native file streaming, and geospatial capabilitiesExploit XML inside the database to design XML-aware applicationsConsume and deliver your data using Microsoft LINQ, Entity Framework, and data bindingImplement database-level encryption and server auditingBuild and maintain data warehousesUse Microsoft Excel to build front ends for OLAP cubes, and MDX to query themIntegrate data mining into applications quickly and effectivelyGet code samples on the Web. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

MyReview - Programming MSSQL 2K8
Programming Microsoft SQL Server 2008 (PRO-Developer)

I've been working with 2008 for 2 years now and with 2005/2000/7.0/6.5 since '98. This book has really become my right hand man with quick, easy to understand reference on the new capabilities of Sql Server 2008. I find it a great, fast to access source of information for a broad range of MSSQL concepts including; CLR, Replication, BI, Linq, New Syntax, deprecation warnings.. the list goes on. The book gives enough insite to a programmer to get him started with all the above. It does not delve into great depth on any of these ideas giving the developer a chance to utilize his/her own intelligence and pursue their own path of specific interest. It does, however, provide a great launching pad on all these ideas. Personally, I would have liked to have seen more on Performance Tuning and using the Service Broker. Reality is though, this IS one book. These days there's enough going on inside Sql Server to fill a library!! This book is a fantastic single point of reference for getting one's self started in 'most' of the concepts involved in a package that's quickly becoming an SOA/Enterprise platform of choice.

A mush mash of development
What would you like to do with SQL server, programming wise as the title suggests ? - Database development for applications or Business Intelligence (reporting, analytics)? This book covers both aspects and does not give sufficient depth to do any sort of reasonable programming in either environment. "Smart Business Intelligence Solutions" ISBN-10: 0735625808 is a good book on Reporting, Analytics and ETL using integration services. For application development, I have not found a single source yet. I recommend: Apress T-Sql recipes and MSPress SQL Server Internals; also MSpress T-SQL fundamentals for beginners.

Programming Microsoft Server 2008 (PRO-Developer)
It is one of the best books I have on this new Server software.
I fully recommend it to anyone needing an update on their SQL Server skills.

Comprehensive, well-written, practical
Very useful, usable information about new features for developers in SQL Server 2008.Highly recommended.

.NET Developers need to know more about SQL Server
And this book is the book to teach them.Leonard, Andrew, and Stephen know their stuff. After one read I've already gotten tips to help me with work on SQL I'm doing right now, and I think it will be an even better reference.Nice job guys. ... Read more

Product Description

The definitive guide to automating SQL Server admnistration with Powershell scripts

If you're a SQL Server database administrator, this book will make your life easier.Windows PowerShell is an administrative scripting tool that allows you to automate many tasks you're probably currently doing by hand. This nuts-and-bolts guide shows you how to create Windows PowerShell scripts to administer almost every aspect of SQL Server.

You'll get a thorough introduction to PowerShell basics and all the PowerShell components that have been integrated into SQL Server 2008, as well as actual administration tasks. The book provides complete scripts that have been tested and proven, saving you hours of effort.

• The new release of Microsoft SQL Server 2008 now includes Windows PowerShell, allowing administrators of large-scale enterprise databases to automate many tasks
• SQL Server 2008 Administration with Windows PowerShell introduces you to PowerShell, covering its components in detail as well as providing basic instruction in using scripts to administer the database
• The book includes numerous examples of SQL tasks that have been automated and also provides completed scripts that you can put to use immediately
• The Companion Web site includes complete code scripts

If you're a database administrator, the scripts and techniques in SQL Server 2008 Administration with Windows PowerShell will save you hours of effort. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Good 1st PowerShell Book for DBAs
I recommend this book to all database administrators who still have not jumped in and executed their first PowerShell command.I know of several DBAs who for one reason or another, keep postponing their exposure to the next generation command line shell.This volume makes a good first PowerShell book for DBAs.It covers the basics of the language with enough examples to get you going and good coverage of what is possible when combined with MS SQL 2008.

The first ten chapters go over specifics of the language, programming syntax, and how to interact with different areas of the operating system.The following eleven chapters demonstrate with code samples, how integrated are MS SQL 2008 and PowerShell.I have found that many of the examples in this book also apply to MS SQL 2005.My favorite chapter is 15 "Building SQL Server Inventory" because the authors provide a working solution to a common problems DBA have when managing many database servers.

To those DBAs who still have not jumped in, do yourself a favor and read this book.

Good book, poor marketing and title
Great content, poor marketing and very poor title!

Very good outline of how powershell works, may I suggest that WROX remove the 50 pages of SQL content and re-label the book as a great beginning tutorial to learning Powershell.
This book is very weak on the how to setup a competent SQL connection to and use it to manipulate SQL server like a DBA would like to do.

This is not a problem with the authorship, they are just doing what they have access to as far as tools from Microsoft. Currently Microsoft only provides a Mini-shell connection, and a modified SQLCMD connection that negates any benefits that powershell brings to working with SQL Server.

This book uses the tools that are available to them from Microsoft which is limited to a mini-shell and SQLCMD.exe type connection to SQL server. These types of connections work well in straight scripting but are very cumbersome, verbose and chatty, when it comes down to writing powershell routines. As such there is not much the authors can do to help the DBA automate SQL task functions in this environment. Given this limited connectivity there is not much you can't accomplish by directly working in SQLCMD.exe, which also limits the desirability of this book to SQL Server professionals.

What most DBA's are looking for is a powershell IDE environment that has direct access to all SMO assembles, where there are commands to call manipulate all the fine details of SQL Server are found.
Currently this book doesn't cover access to all the SMO assemblies because the Microsoft branded tools to do so don't exist. There are free third party snapins that could have been written about to fix this problem but they are not mentioned in this book.

I think Wrox knew about a market for a book and tried to address that need and clearly missed what the customers who were going to buy the book wanted from it.

This book is printed on newsprint quality paper (the pages are tan not bright white) yet this book still costs $60.00 retail very unprofessional and hard to read unless you're in perfect lighting conditions.

It helps you become a pro!
Being a DBA, I am always looking for ways to improve my environments, automate management utilities and monitoring processes. With the help of powershell scripting, I can setup efficient and well-around system architecture for my SQL Server environments. Powershell has better integration with SQL Server, I no longer need to write lengthy batch files, VBScript and T-SQL Code for the missions I am trying to achieve, with simple and straightforward poweshell scripting, I get to complete my tasks faster and effectively.
This book provides step-by-step instructions with clear screenshots, so readers don't get confused with the puzzles between words. Also it provides lots of samples that are ready to be implemented into the system with little customization required to fit into your environments.
I highly recommend this book.

Great refrence book
I am not a SQL admin. But recently, I have to take care of SQL 2008 severs for a small company. This book helped me dramatically.
Whenever I needed something, I just looked it up. I never read the book from the beginning to the end. I just jumped into the section I needed.

The book is well written and the examples are easy to follow. I really highly recommend anybody who wants to admin SQL at ease get this book.

A must have for anyone working with SQL or Servers
I read this book, and I keep it handy because it is a great reference guide.This book not only gives you real world solutions, but it goes through the theories.Anyone working in the IT field knows that theories are what we use to solve problems, not every solutions works.This book has given me some ideas on how to better monitor, and build servers, and I know that this can be used to help out DBA's when they get stumped.I recommend buying this book and using it as reference at the very least, but if you read it in its entirety you will not regret it. ... Read more

Product Description

The Fifth Edition of Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 21 Days

More than 48,000 sold!

In just one hour a day, you’ll have all the skills you need to begin creating effective SQL queries, reports, and database applications. With this complete tutorial, you’ll quickly master the basics and then move on to more advanced features and concepts:

• Quickly apply essential SQL techniques in useful, real-world queries
• Design trustworthy, high-performance databases
• Manipulate your data with views and transactions
• Leverage powerful features including stored procedures, triggers, and cursors
• Work with new objects introduced with the latest SQL standards
• Get practical, expert tips on implementing SQL in your business environment

Learn on your own time, at your own pace

• No previous SQL or database experience required
• Learn techniques that work with any current version of SQL
• Discover how to write faster, more efficient queries
• Secure your data using best practices from experienced database administrators
• Build more powerful databases with features exclusive to Oracle SQL*Plus, Oracle PL/SQL, and Microsoft Transact-SQL
• Write queries for the free, open source MySQL database
• Embed your SQL code in other applications

Ryan Stephens and Ron Plew are President and VP of Perpetual Technologies, Inc. (PTI) in Indianapolis, IN, providing managed services and consulting for top database implementations running Oracle, SQL Server, and other leading technologies. They taught for 5+ years as adjunct professors at Indiana University-Purdue University. Their books include Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 24 Hours, First through Fourth Editions, Sams Teach Yourself SQL in 21 Days, Second through Fourth Editions, and Database Design.

Table of Contents

Introduction  1

PART I: Introducing SQL

LESSON 1: Getting Started with SQL     5

     A Brief History of SQL     5

     A Brief History of Databases     6

     Today’s Database Landscape     11

     A Cross-Product Language     12

         Early Implementations     12

         SQL and Client/Server Application Development     13

    An Overview of SQL     13

    Popular SQL Implementations     14

         MySQL     14

         Oracle     14

         Microsoft SQL Server and Sybase     15

         IBM DB2     16

    Open Database Connectivity     16

    Embedding SQL in Application Programming     17

LESSON 2: Introducing the Query     21

    Exploring SQL’s Background     21

    Learning Basic Query Syntax     22

    The Building Blocks of Data Retrieval: SELECT and FROM     23

    Applying Query Concepts     25

    Writing Your First Query     26

         Terminating a SQL Statement     28

         Selecting Individual Columns     28

         Changing the Order of the Columns     29

         Selecting Different Tables     31

    Selecting Distinct Values     31

         Exercises  37

LESSON 3: Expressions, Conditions, and Operators     39

    Working with Query Expressions     40

    Placing Conditions on Queries     40

    Learning How to Use Operators     42

        Arithmetic Operators     42

        Comparison Operators     55

        Character Operators     63

        Logical Operators     70

        Set Operators     75

        Miscellaneous Operators: IN and BETWEEN     78

LESSON 4: Clauses in SQL Queries     85

    Specifying Criteria with the WHERE Clause     87

    Order from Chaos: The ORDER BY Clause     89

    The GROUP BY Clause     98

    The HAVING Clause     105

    Combining Clauses     112

        Example 4.1     112

        Example 4.2     113

        Example 4.3     113

        Example 4.4     115

LESSON 5: Joining Tables     121

    Joining Multiple Tables in a Single SELECT Statement     121

        Cross Joining Tables     123

        Finding the Correct Column     128

    Joining Tables Based on Equality     129

    Joining Tables Based on Nonequality     137

    OUTER JOINs Versus INNER JOINs     139

    Joining a Table to Itself: The Self Join     143

LESSON 6: Embedding Subqueries into Queries     151

    Building a Subquery     153

    Using Aggregate Functions with Subqueries     160

    Nesting Subqueries     162

    Referencing Outside with Correlated Subqueries     166

    Using EXISTS, ANY, and ALL     169

LESSON 7: Molding Data with Built-in Functions     179

    Using Aggregate Functions to Summarize Data     180

         COUNT     180

         SUM     181

         AVG     182

         MAX     184

         MIN     185

 &nb... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

SQL in One hour a Day
This book I recommend for every beginners in SQL.
The book is very organized and have a lot of exercises.

SQL
This book is for people who want to learn the fundamentals of structured query language (sql) quickly. Through the use of countless examples, this book depicts all the major components of sql, as well as options that are available with various database implementations. You should be able to apply what you learn here to relational databases in a traditional business setting. This book has chosen to use MySQL for hands-on exercises. Over the past decade the landscape of information technology has drastically shifted to a data-centric world. More than ever companies are looking for ways in which they can leverage their own data networks to make intelligent business decisions. This includes the ability to gather, store, and report effectively over possibly large sets of data in multiple formats. So the role of a database administrators and developers has become strategically important in the proper implementation and care of these systems. ... Read more

Product Description

Write powerful SQL statements and PL/SQL programs

Learn to access Oracle databases through SQL statements and construct PL/SQL programs with guidance from Oracle expert, Jason Price. Published by Oracle Press, Oracle Database 11g SQL explains how to retrieve and modify database information, use SQL Plus and SQL Developer, work with database objects, write PL/SQL programs, and much more. Inside, you'll find in-depth coverage of the very latest SQL features and tools, performance optimization techniques, advanced queries, Java support, and XML. This book contains everything you need to master SQL.

• Explore SQL Plus and SQL Developer
• Use SQL SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE statements
• Write PL/SQL programs
• Create tables, sequences, indexes, views, and triggers
• Write advanced queries containing complex analytical functions
• Create database objects and collections to handle abstract data
• Use large objects to handle multimedia files containing music and movies
• Write Java programs to access an Oracle Database using JDBC
• Tune your SQL statements to make them execute faster
• Explore the XML capabilities of the Oracle Database
• Master the very latest Oracle Database 11g features, such as PIVOT and UNPIVOT, flashback archives, and much more

Customer Reviews (6)

My Review
The book was shipped in a timely manner. The item looks new as described by the seller. Good customer service.

Fairly helpful
It has been pretty helpful so far. I've been using it to help me when writing PL/SQL stored procedures on an 11g database.

Good for beginner and intermediate users
This book is good for beginner and intermediate users.When I bought the book last year, I was intermediate SQL and beginner Oracle.On my previous database projects, I used SQL Server and Sybase and used GUIs to create my tables and relationships.My current project requires PL/SQL scripts that can be run in batch.Since I had done a lot of DML (Data Manipulation Language, e.g., SELECT), little DDL (Data Definition Language, e.g., CREATE TABLE), and virtually no Oracle, I needed help!This book rescued me.

This is now my main reference for SQL, and especially Oracle-specific SQL. It has many examples of SQL for specific basic tasks.Not system administration tasks, mind you, but DML and DDL.These examples are the biggest strength.Oracle's syntax flowcharts and O'Reilly's "SQL In A Nutshell" are fine, but I need examples."Show me".

One last note: the book is a SQL book, not a PL/SQL book.If you need to do PL/SQL you will need another PL/SQL-specific book.

Great reference book
It's a great reference book. it has nice examples for a beginner. would highly recommend for beginner/intermediate users.

Great book on SQL and PL/SQL
I'm an experienced Oracle developer and I use this book all the time. I have several books on SQL, and this book is by far the best. It has good examples. I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description
Execution plans show you what's going on behind the scenes in SQL Server. They can provide you with a wealth of information on how your queries are being executed by SQL Server, including:• Which indexes are being used, and where no indexes are being used at all.• How the data is being retrieved, and joined, from the tables defi ned in your query.• How aggregations in GROUP BY queries are put together.• The anticipated load and the estimated cost that all these operations place upon the system.Grant Fritchey's book is the only in-depth look at how to improve your SQL query performance through careful design of execution plans. Sample chapters of the ebook have garnered stunning reviews, such as: "All I can say is WOW.This has to be the best reference I have ever seen on Execution Plans in SQL Server.My hats off to Grant Fritchey" Jonathan Kehayias. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Executions Plans for the Taking
I have to start out by saying...finally!As a .NET developer, I am always personally interested in stretching my limits and perfecting my craft.Although there may be a handful of applications that don't require data access, I've never witnessed any that weren't trivial.I work with SQL Server professionally and personally.I've looked at execution plans for a little while and when I really paid attention to them (in SQL 2005), I couldn't believe the potential for correcting bad mistakes.The trouble came when I couldn't find any texts on SQL Server that really made more than a passing reference to execution plans.I set out anew to find something definitive and the timing was right.

Mr. Fritchey's work has demystified so many of the fine points of why SQL Server develops one plan over another.There were more than a few operators that I didn't fully grasp and this reference has finally shed light on those operators.If you've ever wondered what those plans were all about then this text will explain in detail each operator in sample plans generated from sample queries, both simple and complex.Don't worry that you'll dive right into complex selections that look as if they are part of a disgruntled programmer's plot of obfuscation.Mr. Fritchey has chosen to sensibly start with simple queries and explains the plan results.Then he moves into slight query modifications and explains how and why the new plan differs.Eventually, query selections grow in complexity one layer at a time and the plan explanations keep right up in a logical manner.You'll be able to see the results for yourself in the book but I recommend performing the same SQL queries on your own instance to get the best view.The examples are performed on a version of Microsoft's AdventureWorks database, so you need not worry about getting access to those databases as they are provided freely as you likely already know.I've waited a long time for a book to address this niche within SQL Server's great depth and I am pleased with my luck in finding this book!When a book focuses on a specific aspect of a huge technological space, it can make for a great opportunity to learn product features deeply and SQL Server Execution Plans fits this bill.

The book is not large and doesn't weight as much as a small blue whale.That fact is attractive unto itself given the disturbing trend ofkilling as many trees as possible.Hopefully digital editions will mitigate this trend.I really only gave the book 4 stars because of the publisher's lack of attention to detail and standards.Mr. Fritchey's content is fantastic but the quality of the book itself leaves much to be desired.Many of the figures and insets of execution plans are too small to be useful, thus my recommendation of running the queries along with your reading.Since this is one of the only texts to address the subject matter in serious detail, I think the publisher could have made a much better showing.Irrespective of the book's physical qualities, the content is ultimately useful and approachable to boot!

Excellent Book on SQL Server Execution Plans
I found Grant Fritchey's book on Execution Plans. The information is geared towards SQL Server database professionals and administrators with experience. The book is filled with practical experience and lessons learned, the kind of pragmatic information SQL Server professionals can apply immediately.

:{> Andy

excellent resource
Every dba should have a copy of this.It is a fantastic resource for those deep dive analysis of the query execution plans.I have not see anything else that goes into such detail to explain just how sql is actually getting your data.

A Great Introduction To Execution Plans
This book was an easy read on a subject that can be relatively intimidating for a developer with no experience in the area.It is a great introduction to learning how to read SQL Server Execution Plans.There are lots of good examples and screen shots describing how the server is interpreting the commands being executed.

However, one should note that the book is NOT about how the plans will help you to improve your queries.Instead, knowing how to read through the various execution plans will help the reader to understand where problems might exist.

The Bible of SQL Execution Plans
Not a novel, but very easy to read and understand.

I have the Kindle copy and the execution plans pictures are too small for an easy understanding. But it is a must read for any serious DBA. Great on the PC kindle. It would be nice if the code could be easily copied and pasted.

Concise, clear, well laid out, really worthwhile reading. I have been programming SQL for over 20 years... I am still amazed on how little I know. Many interesting insights and worth every cents if you can speed up your sytem based on the recommended suggestions.

Jerome ... Read more