What is the main difference between SQL and PL/SQL?

Question

Pooja R. Jain · Accepted Answer

As an experienced tutor registered on UrbanPro.com, specializing in SQL Server Coaching, understanding the main difference between SQL and PL/SQL is crucial for learners entering the realm of database management. Join UrbanPro for the best online coaching in SQL Server Coaching, where expert tutors guide you through the intricacies of SQL and PL/SQL.

Understanding SQL (Structured Query Language)

1. Definition:

SQL (Structured Query Language):
- SQL is a domain-specific language used for managing and manipulating relational databases.
Application:
- Designed for tasks such as querying data, updating records, inserting data, and managing database structures.

2. Characteristics:

Declarative Language:
- SQL is a declarative language where users specify what they want to retrieve or modify, and the database management system (DBMS) determines how to execute the request.
Data Querying:
- Primarily used for querying data from databases using SELECT statements.
Data Manipulation:
- Supports data manipulation operations like INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE for modifying records.

3. Examples:

sql

-- SQL Query to Retrieve Employee Names SELECT employee_name FROM employees WHERE department = 'IT'; -- SQL Statement to Insert New Record INSERT INTO employees (employee_name, department, salary) VALUES ('John Doe', 'Finance', 50000);

Unveiling PL/SQL (Procedural Language/Structured Query Language)

1. Definition:

PL/SQL (Procedural Language/Structured Query Language):
- PL/SQL is an extension of SQL that adds procedural programming capabilities.
Application:
- Used for writing procedural code, including functions, procedures, and triggers, to enhance the functionality of SQL.

2. Characteristics:

Procedural Language:
- PL/SQL is a procedural language, allowing the creation of reusable program units like procedures and functions.
Block Structure:
- Programs in PL/SQL are organized into blocks, consisting of declarations, executable statements, and exception-handling sections.
Variable Declaration:
- Supports variable declaration and assignment, enabling the storage and manipulation of values during program execution.

3. Examples:

plsql

-- PL/SQL Procedure to Update Employee Salary CREATE OR REPLACE PROCEDURE update_salary(emp_id NUMBER, new_salary NUMBER) AS BEGIN UPDATE employees SET salary = new_salary WHERE employee_id = emp_id; END; -- PL/SQL Function to Calculate Bonus CREATE OR REPLACE FUNCTION calculate_bonus(salary NUMBER) RETURN NUMBER IS bonus NUMBER; BEGIN bonus := salary * 0.1; RETURN bonus; END;

Key Differences

1. Nature of Language:

SQL:
- Declarative language focused on querying and manipulating data.
PL/SQL:
- Procedural language with additional programming capabilities for building modular and reusable code.

2. Primary Use:

SQL:
- Primarily used for database querying and manipulation.
PL/SQL:
- Used for writing procedural code, including stored procedures, functions, and triggers.

3. Program Structure:

SQL:
- Uses single queries for specific tasks.
PL/SQL:
- Organizes code into blocks with declarations, executable statements, and exception-handling sections.

UrbanPro's Approach to Teaching SQL and PL/SQL

Integrated Learning Modules:
- UrbanPro's SQL Server Coaching integrates comprehensive modules covering both SQL and PL/SQL.
- Tutors provide in-depth understanding and practical application.
Hands-On Coding Exercises:
- Engage in hands-on coding exercises that involve writing SQL queries and PL/SQL programs.
- Practical application reinforces theoretical knowledge.
Real-World Projects:
- UrbanPro incorporates real-world projects that combine SQL and PL/SQL functionalities.
- Learners gain insights into how these languages are used together in professional database development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while SQL is primarily focused on database querying and manipulation, PL/SQL extends its capabilities by adding procedural programming features. UrbanPro's SQL Server Coaching ensures that learners grasp the distinctions between SQL and PL/SQL and are equipped with the skills needed for comprehensive database development. Join UrbanPro's trusted marketplace for the best online coaching in SQL Server Coaching and embark on a learning journey that demystifies SQL and PL/SQL. Master the art of database management with UrbanPro's expert guidance and transformative learning experience.

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What is the main difference between SQL and PL/SQL?

Understanding SQL (Structured Query Language)

1. Definition:

2. Characteristics:

3. Examples:

Unveiling PL/SQL (Procedural Language/Structured Query Language)

1. Definition:

2. Characteristics:

3. Examples:

Key Differences

1. Nature of Language:

2. Primary Use:

3. Program Structure:

UrbanPro's Approach to Teaching SQL and PL/SQL

Conclusion

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