SQL Queries for Mere Mortals, Third Edition: A Hands-On Guide to Data Manipulation in SQL

Practical SQL Without the Jargon

What if writing SQL felt less like deciphering a foreign language and more like following a clear, logical process? That’s the promise of SQL Queries for Mere Mortals, Third Edition, a hands-on guide that breaks down data manipulation into manageable skills.

Authors John L. Viescas and Michael J. Hernandez bring decades of database experience to this updated edition, helping readers move from basic SELECT statements to confident multi-table queries. The focus stays squarely on practical query writing for real-world data questions.

What Makes This Book Different

Many SQL books show you a handful of statements and move on. This one takes the time to translate everyday questions into SQL, using clear explanations and plenty of examples. The authors diagram the thought process behind each query, making it easier to see how a request like “show me all customers who ordered in March” becomes a precise SELECT statement.

You’ll also learn to think in sets 💡—one of the most important skills for writing efficient queries. Instead of treating tables as isolated spreadsheets, you’ll see how data relates and how to combine it with INNER JOINs, OUTER JOINs, UNIONs, and more.

Inside the Third Edition

• Sound database design fundamentals — why a well-structured table makes every query easier.
• Creating simple and complex SELECT statements — from selecting columns to filtering and sorting data.
• Expressions and data types — working with strings, numbers, dates, and NULL values.
• Thinking in sets — intersection, difference, union, and how they apply to SQL.
• Multi-table queries — INNER JOINs, OUTER JOINs, UNION JOIN, and when to use each.
• Practice problems — each chapter ends with “Problems for You to Solve” to reinforce what you’ve learned.

Who Will Benefit

This title is ideal for anyone who wants to learn SQL from the ground up or shore up rusty skills. It’s especially useful for analysts, developers, database administrators, and business professionals who rely on data to make decisions. The approach is accessible enough for newcomers but thorough enough to remain a go-to reference long after you finish.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to stop guessing at SQL syntax and start writing queries with clarity and confidence, this ebook gives you a structured path. Grab your copy from Digital Delights and turn everyday data questions into dependable answers.