sql insert into
Galaxy Glossary
How do you add new data to a table in SQL?
The `INSERT INTO` statement is fundamental in SQL for adding new rows of data to a table. It's a crucial part of data management, allowing you to populate your database with information. This statement specifies the table and the values to be inserted.
Sign up for the latest in SQL knowledge from the Galaxy Team!
Description
The `INSERT INTO` statement is used to add new rows to a table in a relational database. It's a core part of data manipulation, enabling you to populate your database with the necessary information. This statement is essential for creating and maintaining the data within your tables. Understanding how to use `INSERT INTO` correctly is vital for any SQL developer. It's a straightforward yet powerful tool for adding data, enabling you to update and maintain your database effectively. The statement takes the table name as input and allows you to specify the values to be inserted into the columns of that table.
Why sql insert into is important
The `INSERT INTO` statement is crucial for populating databases with data. Without it, you wouldn't be able to add new records, making the database useless. It's a fundamental building block for any data-driven application.
Example Usage
```sql
-- Inserting data into a table named 'Customers'
INSERT INTO Customers (CustomerID, FirstName, LastName, City)
VALUES (1, 'John', 'Doe', 'New York');
-- Inserting data into all columns (if you know the order)
INSERT INTO Customers
VALUES (2, 'Jane', 'Smith', 'Los Angeles', 'CA');
-- Inserting data using a SELECT statement (useful for populating from another table)
INSERT INTO Customers (CustomerID, FirstName, LastName, City)
SELECT 3, 'Peter', 'Jones', 'Chicago' FROM Employees WHERE EmployeeID = 1;
```
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting to specify the column names when inserting values (especially when not inserting into all columns).
- Incorrect data types for the values being inserted (e.g., inserting a string where an integer is expected).
- Using incorrect syntax for the `VALUES` clause.
- Trying to insert values into columns that have constraints (e.g., `NOT NULL` columns without providing a value).
.avif){kind=logo}
