I've been diving into SQL as part of my learning journey to become a data analyst or data scientist. While I've got the basics down, I really struggle with intermediate and advanced problem-solving. I've tried using ChatGPT for help, but when I move on to the next challenge, I find myself lost again. What do you all recommend for improving my SQL skills? Should I tackle projects to gain experience? Any advice for grasping more complex SQL concepts and doing well in interviews would be greatly appreciated!
3 Answers
Stop relying on AI to solve your SQL problems. The key to improving is to challenge yourself and work through issues using your brain. The syntax might seem easy, but you need to practice a variety of problems to really build your skill. What do you consider "intermediate" problems? Are they mainly about writing queries, or do they involve deeper concepts like stored procedures and optimization?
AI tools are really not the best crutch during your learning phase. The only way to gain real experience is through consistent practice. Try to build more complex databases; there are sample databases online that can really help you learn. Remember, getting a junior role can feel like a luck game, but you've got to keep at it until you land that job. More practice is what it’s all about!
Try starting with pen and paper before you jump into coding. Write down what you hope to accomplish, where the data is, and any conditions you need to meet. This helps you visualize your approach and structure your code better. It's not about speed; it’s about having a clear understanding of your thought process, which is exactly what employers want. The slower method can actually be beneficial in troubleshooting too!
That makes so much sense! It's easy to get lost in the code and lose track of what's needed. I'll definitely give that a try.