How to Learn MySQL Online
MySQL is one of the most popular relational database management systems (RDBMS) in use today. MySQL is a reliable, fast and easy-to-use open source RDBMS maintained by Oracle, renowned database experts. MySQL powers business systems, scientific research and websites, including some of the most popular, high-volume destinations on the web. Whether you want to learn MySQL to beef up your resume, build the next killer web app, maintain your business' infrastructure or out of the sheer desire to learn, you will find plenty of helpful resources online.
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Instructions
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Complete the "W3Schools: SQL Tutorial" linked in the references section. MySQL uses Structured Query Language (SQL) to provide access to its databases and data. This tutorial gives you a general understanding of relational database concepts and skills. It provides a strong foundation for delving into the more complex details of MySQL usage and administration.
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Go to the "MySQL Reference Manual" web page linked in the references section. Click the version of MySQL you are using (or the newest one) on the left side of the page. Click the chapter titled "Tutorial" (chapter 3 for most versions) on the right side of the page.
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Read through the MySQL Tutorial chapter. This tutorial focuses on MySQL-specific usage. You will encounter multiple links to other sections of the manual. Avoid information overload by ignoring these links for now.
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Review the MySQL Tutorial chapter. This time, open the links to reference manual pages, read the related pages and even follow other links you find throughout the manual. This will give you a more detailed understanding of specific topics and familiarize you with the manual's organization.
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Click the "MySQL Reference Manual" link at the top of the page to go to the table of contents. If you are a database administrator, read the "MySQL Programs" and "Server Administration" chapters. If you are a designer, the chapters on "Data Types," "Functions and Operators" and "SQL Statement Syntax" are good places to start.
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Go to the "MySQL Tutorial" website linked in the references section. Tutorials are presented in logical order, with a variety of specialty topics and resources linked in the menu on the right. Work through all the tutorials, or jump into specific tutorials relevant to topics you want to learn more about. Download and install the "MySQL Sample Database" if you need an example database.
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Tips & Warnings
There is nothing like hands-on practice for learning new things, including MySQL. If you need a MySQL server to play with, download and install XAMPP (linked in the Resources section). XAMPP is a self-contained web server sandbox that includes MySQL. It is available for multiple platforms, comes pre-configured and can be installed on a thumb drive.
MySQL Workbench is a free graphical MySQL database design and administration tool. Workbench helps you visualize your databases, helping you get up on the MySQL curve while you design, maintain, and administer your databases. See the Resources section for a link.
References
Resources
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