MySQL Error 1064: SQL Syntax Error

Error 1064 in MySQL means your SQL query could not be parsed due to a syntax mistake. This is one of the most common MySQL errors and typically occurs when:

• A keyword is misspelled or misused
• A required clause is missing
• There’s a stray character, comma, or parenthesis
• You’re using a reserved word as a table or column name without backticks
• The query includes outdated syntax not supported by your MySQL version

The error message usually shows the problematic part of the query and the line number, helping narrow down the issue.

• Typos in SQL keywords (e.g., SELEC instead of SELECT)
• Using reserved words (like order, group) as identifiers without backticks
• Incorrect clause order (e.g., WHERE before FROM)
• Mismatched or missing parentheses or quotes
• Incompatible or deprecated syntax in newer MySQL versions
• Attempting to use unsupported features (e.g., full JOIN syntax in older versions)

Q: How can I tell where the syntax error is?
A: The error message will usually say “near ... at line X,” which points to where the parser got confused. The issue may be just before that point.

Q: Can reserved words cause Error 1064?
A: Yes—if you use a reserved word like group or order as a column or table name, wrap it in backticks like `order`.

Q: I copied this query from a tutorial. Why doesn’t it work?
A: It might be using syntax valid in a different MySQL version. Check your MySQL version with SELECT VERSION(); and update the query accordingly.