How to design and structure an efficient database?
Planning a database is a crucial step that can save space and time, as well as optimize data processing. The key is to avoid duplication of unnecessary information by using efficient tables and referencing IDs instead of repeating data. This approach not only reduces the size of the database, but also improves its performance.
How to use the INSERT command in SQL?
The INSERT
command in SQL is essential for adding data to tables in a database. There are several ways to use it:
- Basic syntax:
INSERT INTO table (column1, column2) VALUES (value1, value2);
- Use without specifying columns: If some columns (such as an autonumeric ID) do not require input values, you can omit specifying them in the
INSERT
statement, letting the database assign values automatically.
Example:
INSERT INTO authors (name, nationality) VALUES ('Juan Rulfo', 'MEX');
There are several methods to insert data, and by choosing the right one you can optimize the operations significantly:
- Specifying columns and values: this is the most common way and allows you to specify exactly which values go in which columns.
INSERT INTO authors (name, nationality) VALUES ('Gabriel García Márquez', 'COL');
- No columns specified: Only the values are listed, useful when entering values for all columns in the correct order.
INSERT INTO authors VALUES (DEFAULT, 'Juan Gabriel Vázquez', 'COL');
- Multiple Insert: Allows inserting multiple records in a single statement, which is more efficient than executing multiple separate
INSERT
statements.
INSERT INTO authors (name, nationality) VALUES ('Julio Cortázar', 'ARG'), ('Isabel Allende', 'CHI');
What happens with auto-incremental and custom IDs?
In databases, IDs are usually auto-incremental primary keys, but they can also be customized:
- Manual ID assignment: a specific value can be assigned to an ID, as long as it is not occupied by another record.
INSERT INTO authors (authorID, name) VALUES (16, 'Pablo Neruda');
It is crucial to remember that primary keys must be unique, and any attempt at duplication will result in an error if not handled properly.
To handle the insertion of large amounts of data, it is recommended to do it in blocks or "chunks":
-
Insertions in blocks: performing insertions in blocks of up to 50 records can prevent interrupt and connection problems. This distributes the load and minimizes the risk of data loss.
-
Limit settings: Consider system configuration to adjust the maximum number of inserts per batch as needed.
This methodology ensures that connections maintain their integrity and that the database continues to operate efficiently even under heavy loads.
Want to see more contributions, questions and answers from the community?